A nurse is caring for a client who is immediately postoperative following a subtotal thyroidectomy.
Vital Signs
1100:
Temperature 37.4° C (99.4° F) Heart rate 98/min Respiratory rate 18/min
Blood pressure 128/68 mm Hg
Pulse oximetry 97% on room air
1115:
Temperature 37.8° C (100.1° F) Heart rate 110/min Respiratory rate 16/min
Blood pressure 138/74 mm Hg
Pulse oximetry 95% on room air
1130:
Temperature 38.6° C (101.5° F). Heart rate 136/min
Respiratory rate 16/min
Blood pressure 154/86 mm Hg
Pulse oximetry 95% on 2 L/min via nasal cannula
Select the 4 client findings that lead the nurse to suspect that the client is experiencing thyroid storm.
Mental status
Wound drainage
Heart rate
Pain
Blood pressure
Temperature
Correct Answer : A,C,E,F
A. This choice is correct because mental status changes, such as agitation, confusion, or delirium, are common signs of thyroid storm, which is a life-threatening complication of hyperthyroidism that occurs when there is excessive release of thyroid hormones.
B. This choice is incorrect because wound drainage is not a specific sign of thyroid storm, but rather a potential complication of any surgery that can indicate infection or bleeding.
C. This choice is correct because tachycardia, or increased heart rate, is a common sign of thyroid storm, which can result from increased metabolic demand and increased sensitivity to catecholamines.
D. This choice is incorrect because pain is not a specific sign of thyroid storm, but rather a common symptom of any surgery that can be managed with analgesics.
E. This choice is correct because hypertension, or increased blood pressure, is a common sign of thyroid storm, which can result from increased cardiac output and peripheral vascular resistance.
F. This choice is correct because hyperthermia, or increased temperature, is a common sign of thyroid storm, which can result from increased heat production and impaired heat dissipation.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is {"dropdown-group-1":"A","dropdown-group-2":"C"}
Explanation
The client is at risk for experiencing electrolyte imbalance due to the vomiting. Persistent vomiting during pregnancy, especially with significant weight loss, can lead to electrolyte imbalances such as hypokalemia, hyponatremia, or metabolic alkalosis. This can result from the body's inability to retain essential minerals and fluids. The client’s reported diet of minimal food intake, primarily consisting of toast and pretzels, indicates inadequate nutrition and potential for further exacerbation of these imbalances.
The significant weight loss of 6.8 kg (15 lb) within a month and continuous nausea and vomiting are concerning symptoms that warrant immediate medical evaluation. The nurse’s advice to seek a provider’s assessment underscores the need for timely intervention to address potential complications, ensure maternal and fetal health, and possibly prescribe antiemetic medications or other treatments to manage symptoms.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Discussing the suspicion of physical abuse with the provider isis essential, but it should not replace reporting to CPS. The provider’s input is valuable, but immediate action is necessary.
B. Confronting the parents with the suspicion of physical abuse is not an appropriate action for the nurse to take, as it can escalate the situation and endanger the child or the nurse.
C. Asking the hospital security to detain and question the parents is not an appropriate action for the nurse to take, as it violates the parents' rights and may interfere with the legal process.
D. Contacting Child Protective Servicesnurses are legally required to report all cases of suspected child abuse to the appropriate local or state agency.It's a critical step in protecting the child from further harm.
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