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A nurse is caring for a client who has chronic hypothyroidism. For which of the following conditions should the nurse monitor?

A.

Photophobia

B.

Exophthalmos

C.

Lethargy

D.

Goiter

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is C

A. Photophobia is not typically associated with hypothyroidism. It can be a symptom of  conditions affecting the eyes, such as certain infections or ocular disorders. 

B. Exophthalmos is a protrusion of the eyeballs and is a characteristic symptom of  hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid), not hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid). 

C. Correct. Lethargy is a common symptom of hypothyroidism. It is characterized by extreme  tiredness, sluggishness, and lack of energy. 

D. Goiter is an enlargement of the thyroid gland and can occur in both hyperthyroidism and  hypothyroidism. However, it is not a direct symptom; it is a physical finding that can be  associated with thyroid disorders. 


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Related Questions

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A. Checking the pedal pulses is important for assessing circulation, but it may not directly address the cause of the muscle spasms. In this case, addressing the electrolyte imbalance is a higher priority.

B. Requesting a relaxant might provide temporary relief for muscle spasms, but it does not address the potential underlying cause. It's important to identify and treat the root issue.

C. Correct. Severe muscle spasms in a client post-thyroidectomy could indicate hypocalcemia, as the parathyroid glands, which regulate calcium levels, can be affected during the surgery. Verifying the most recent calcium level will help determine if this is the cause.

D. Administering an oral potassium supplement addresses a different electrolyte imbalance (hypokalemia), which is not typically associated with muscle spasms following a thyroidectomy. Calcium levels are more relevant in this context.

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

1 AM while sleeping: NPH insulin, like Humulin N, typically reaches its peak effectiveness about 4-12 hours after administration. Since the client takes it at 5 PM, the time of greatest risk for hypoglycemia is around 1 AM when the insulin's effects are at their peak. This is a critical period for monitoring blood glucose levels.

B. 8 PM shortly after dinner: By 8 PM, the NPH insulin's effectiveness is not at its peak. It's been about 3 hours since administration, and the insulin is still working to lower blood glucose levels. This time frame is not associated with the highest risk of hypoglycemia.

C. 6 PM shortly after dinner: At 6 PM, it's been only about an hour since the client took the NPH insulin. The insulin is just beginning to take effect, and the risk of hypoglycemia is not as high as it would be later in the night.

D. 11:00 AM, shortly before lunch: By 11:00 AM, the effects of the NPH insulin from the previous evening have largely worn off. This time frame is not associated with a high risk of hypoglycemia related to the evening dose of NPH insulin.

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