A nurse is reviewing the medical record of a client who has hyperthyroidism (Graves disease). Which of the following serum laboratory findings should the nurse expect to be below the expected reference range?
Thyroxine (T4) level
Triiodothyronine (T3) level
Thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) level
Glucose level
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A: Thyroxine (T4) level. This is incorrect because T4 is one of the thyroid hormones that is increased in hyperthyroidism. T4 is produced by the thyroid gland and converted to T3 in the tissues. A high level of T4 indicates overactivity of the thyroid gland.1
Choice B: Triiodothyronine (T3) level. This is incorrect because T3 is another thyroid hormone that is increased in hyperthyroidism. T3 is the more active form of thyroid hormone and regulates the metabolism of cells. A high level of T3 indicates overactivity of the thyroid gland.1
Choice C: Thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) level. This is correct because TSH is a hormone that stimulates the thyroid gland to produce T4 and T3. TSH is produced by the pituitary gland and regulated by a feedback mechanism. When the levels of T4 and T3 are high, the pituitary gland reduces the secretion of TSH to inhibit further production of thyroid hormones. Therefore, a low level of TSH indicates hyperthyroidism.1
Choice D: Glucose level. This is incorrect because glucose level is not directly related to thyroid function. However, hyperthyroidism can affect glucose metabolism and cause increased blood sugar levels due to increased breakdown of glycogen and glucose uptake by cells. Therefore, glucose level may be elevated in some cases of hyperthyroidism, but it is not a specific indicator.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Phosphate 5.7 mg/dL is an elevated value, as the normal range is 2.5 to 4.5 mg/dL. Hypoparathyroidism causes low levels of parathyroid hormone (PTH), which regulates calcium and phosphorus balance in the body. Low PTH leads to low calcium and high phosphorus levels in the blood.
Choice B reason: Vitamin D 25 ng/mL is a normal value, as the normal range is 20 to 50 ng/mL. Hypoparathyroidism does not directly affect vitamin D levels, but vitamin D supplements may be given to help increase calcium absorption and lower phosphorus levels in the blood.
Choice C reason: Calcium 9.8 mg/dL is a normal value, as the normal range is 8.6 to 10.2 mg/dL. Hypoparathyroidism causes low levels of parathyroid hormone (PTH), which regulates calcium and phosphorus balance in the body. Low PTH leads to low calcium and high phosphorus levels in the blood. However, calcium levels may be normal or near- normal in some cases of hypoparathyroidism, especially if the condition is mild or well-controlled with treatment.
Choice D reason: Magnesium 1.8 mEq/L is a normal value, as the normal range is 1.5 to 2.5 mEq/L. Hypoparathyroidism does not directly affect magnesium levels, but magnesium deficiency can cause or worsen hypoparathyroidism, as magnesium is needed for PTH secretion and action. Magnesium supplements may be given to correct magnesium deficiency and improve PTH function.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A: Blurred vision is not a typical finding of hypothyroidism. It can be caused by other conditions, such as diabetes, glaucoma, or eye strain.
Choice B: Bradycardia is a slow heart rate, usually below 60 beats per minute. This is a common finding of hypothyroidism, as the thyroid hormone regulates the metabolic rate and affects the cardiovascular system. Low levels of thyroid hormone can cause the heart to beat slower and weaker.
Choice C: Insomnia is difficulty falling or staying asleep. This is not a common finding of hypothyroidism, as low thyroid hormone levels can cause fatigue, lethargy, and excessive sleepiness.
Choice D: Moist skin is not a common finding of hypothyroidism, as low thyroid hormone levels can cause dry skin, hair loss, and britle nails. Moist skin can be a sign of hyperthyroidism, which is the opposite condition of hypothyroidism.
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