A nurse is monitoring a client following a thyroidectomy. Which of the following findings should the nurse identify as an indication of hypoparathyroidism?

Elevated blood pressure

Involuntary muscle spasms

Cold intolerance

Weight loss

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is B

Choice A reason: This is an incorrect finding, because elevated blood pressure is not a sign of hypoparathyroidism, which is a condition that occurs when the parathyroid glands produce insufficient parathyroid hormone (PTH). PTH regulates the calcium and phosphorus levels in the blood and bones. Elevated blood pressure can be a sign of hyperparathyroidism, which is the opposite condition.

Choice B reason: This is the correct finding, because involuntary muscle spasms are a sign of hypoparathyroidism, which causes hypocalcemia, or low blood calcium levels. Hypocalcemia can cause neuromuscular irritability and tetany, which are manifested by muscle spasms, twitching, cramps, or seizures.

Choice C reason: This is an incorrect finding, because cold intolerance is not a sign of hypoparathyroidism, but a sign of hypothyroidism, which is a condition that occurs when the thyroid gland produces insufficient thyroid hormone. Thyroid hormone regulates the metabolism and body temperature. Cold intolerance can also be a sign of Hashimoto's thyroiditis, which is an autoimmune disease that causes inflammation and destruction of the thyroid gland.

Choice D reason: This is an incorrect finding, because weight loss is not a sign of hypoparathyroidism, but a sign of hyperthyroidism, which is a condition that occurs when the thyroid gland produces excessive thyroid hormone. Thyroid hormone increases the metabolism and energy expenditure. Weight loss can also be a sign of Graves' disease, which is an autoimmune disease that causes overstimulation and enlargement of the thyroid gland.

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Correct Answer is ["B","C","E"]

Explanation

Choice A reason: Unilateral weakness is an incorrect finding, because it is more indicative of a stroke or a brain tumor than encephalitis. Encephalitis is an inflammation of the brain that can cause neurological symptoms, but they are usually bilateral and symmetrical.

Choice B reason: Stiff neck is a correct finding, because it is a sign of meningeal irritation, which can occur in encephalitis due to the involvement of the meninges (the membranes that cover the brain and spinal cord).

Choice C reason: Photophobia is a correct finding, because it is another sign of meningeal irritation, which can cause sensitivity to light and sound.

Choice D reason: Epigastric pain is an incorrect finding, because it is not related to encephalitis. Epigastric pain is more likely to be caused by a gastrointestinal disorder, such as gastritis or peptic ulcer.

Choice E reason: Lethargy is a correct finding, because it is a sign of altered mental status, which can occur in encephalitis due to the damage to the brain tissue.

A. “Because most of my colon is still intact and functioning, my stool will be formed.” B. “My stoma will appear large at first, but it will shrink over time.” C. “My colostomy will begin to function 2 to 6 days after surgery.” D. “My diet will have to change to a soft diet after surgery.”

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

Choice A reason: This is a correct statement, because the stool consistency depends on the location of the colostomy. A sigmoid colostomy is located in the lower part of the colon, where most of the water is absorbed, so the stool will be formed.

Choice B reason: This is a correct statement, because the stoma size will decrease as the swelling subsides and the wound heals. The stoma will reach its final size in about 6 to 8 weeks after surgery.

Choice C reason: This is a correct statement, because the colostomy function will resume gradually after surgery, depending on the bowel motility and the presence of gas or stool. The colostomy will usually start to function 2 to 6 days after surgery.

Choice D reason: This is an incorrect statement, because the diet does not have to change to a soft diet after surgery. The client can resume a normal diet as tolerated, unless there are specific dietary restrictions or recommendations from the provider. A soft diet may be recommended only for the first few days after surgery, to avoid bowel obstruction or irritation.

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A nurse is monitoring a client following a thyroidectomy. Which of the following findings should the nurse identify as an indication of hypoparathyroidism?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

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Correct Answer is ["B","C","E"]

Explanation

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Correct Answer is D

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