A nurse is assessing a patient admitted with hyperthyroidism.
The patient reports a weight loss of 5.4 kg (12 lb) in the last 2 months, increased appetite, increased perspiration, fatigue, menstrual irregularity, and restlessness.Which of the following actions should the nurse take to prevent a thyroid crisis?
Provide a quiet, low-stimulus environment
Keep the patient NPO
Administer aspirin as prescribed for any sign of hyperthermia.
Observe the patient carefully for signs of hypocalcemia.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale
Providing a quiet, low-stimulus environment is one of the key interventions for a patient with hyperthyroidism who is at risk of a thyroid crisis. Hyperthyroidism is characterized by an overproduction of thyroid hormones, which can accelerate the body’s metabolism causing symptoms such as rapid heart rate, increased appetite, increased perspiration, fatigue, menstrual irregularity, and restlessness. A thyroid crisis, also known as a thyroid storm, is a severe, life-threatening condition characterized by extreme symptoms of hyperthyroidism. A quiet, low-stimulus environment can help reduce anxiety and agitation, which can exacerbate symptoms and potentially trigger a thyroid crisis.
Choice B rationale
Keeping the patient NPO (nothing by mouth) is not typically necessary in the management of hyperthyroidism unless the patient is preparing for a procedure such as thyroid surgery. In
fact, because of the increased metabolic rate in hyperthyroidism, patients often have an increased appetite and may require additional caloric intake.
Choice C rationale
Administering aspirin for any sign of hyperthermia is not recommended in hyperthyroidism. Aspirin can actually increase the level of free thyroid hormones in the blood by displacing them from their binding proteins, potentially worsening the hyperthyroid state.
Choice D rationale
While it is important to observe patients with hyperthyroidism for signs of various complications, hypocalcemia is not typically associated with hyperthyroidism. Hypocalcemia, or low calcium levels in the blood, is more commonly associated with hypoparathyroidism or vitamin D deficiency.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
While a hiatal hernia can cause discomfort and other symptoms, it does not directly increase the risk for stomach cancer.
Choice B rationale
A hiatal hernia might increase your risk for Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD). This is because the hernia can cause the lower esophageal sphincter to malfunction, allowing stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus, which is the main cause of GERD1.
Choice C rationale
A hiatal hernia does not directly increase the risk for lung disease. However, if the hernia is large, it could potentially cause breathing difficulties or exacerbate existing respiratory conditions.
Choice D rationale
A hiatal hernia does not increase the risk for intestinal cancer. The hernia occurs in the diaphragm, which is separate from the intestines.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Avoiding the use of tanning booths is an effective measure to prevent skin cancer as tanning booths emit harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays that can damage the skin and increase the risk of skin cancer.
Choice B rationale
Using sunscreen even on cloudy days is recommended as UV rays can penetrate through clouds and harm the skin.
Choice C rationale
Checking the skin monthly for any changes is a good practice as early detection of skin changes can lead to early diagnosis and treatment of skin cancer.
Choice D rationale
Eating a high fiber diet does not reduce the risk for developing skin cancer. While a healthy diet is important for overall health, it does not directly prevent skin cancer. Hypokalemia Explore
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