A patient with primary hypothyroidism is showing early signs of myxedema coma.
In what order should the nurse perform the following assessments? (Rank the first action at the top with the remainder in descending order.)
Measure body temperature.
Palpate for pedal edema.
Observe breathing patterns.
Assess blood pressure.
The Correct Answer is C,A,D,B
Step 1: Observe breathing patterns. Respiratory depression is a critical symptom of myxedema coma that requires immediate attention.
Step 2: Measure body temperature. Hypothermia is a common symptom of myxedema coma and can provide important information about the severity of the patient’s condition.
Step 3: Assess blood pressure. Hypotension can occur in myxedema coma and can indicate the severity of the patient’s condition.
Step 4: Palpate for pedal edema. While this can be a symptom of hypothyroidism, it is not typically a primary concern in a patient showing signs of myxedema coma.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
While repeat blood cultures could potentially provide useful information, they are not the immediate priority when a patient develops jaundice. Jaundice is a sign of liver dysfunction, and further evaluation of liver function is needed to determine the cause and appropriate treatment.
Choice B rationale
Arranging emergency transport to an inpatient facility may be necessary in some cases, but it is not the immediate action required in this situation. The development of jaundice indicates a need for further evaluation, but it does not necessarily indicate an emergency situation.
Choice C rationale
Explaining the need to evaluate liver function is the most appropriate action in this situation. Jaundice is a sign of liver dysfunction, and further evaluation of liver function is needed to determine the cause and appropriate treatment.
Choice D rationale
While increasing protein intake can be beneficial for some patients with liver disease, it is not the immediate priority in this situation. The development of jaundice indicates a need for further evaluation of liver function.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Assigning the newly hired UAP to clients who require the least complex level of care might not be the best approach. While it might seem logical to assign less complex cases to a new hire, this could limit the UAP’s opportunities for learning and growth.
Choice B rationale
Reviewing the UAP’s skills checklist and experience with the person who hired the UAP is an important step, but it might not be enough to ensure adequate care for all clients. The skills and experiences listed on a checklist might not fully reflect the UAP’s actual abilities in a real-world setting.
Choice C rationale
Asking the most experienced UAP on the team to partner with the newly hired UAP could be beneficial for mentorship and guidance. However, this might not be the most efficient use of resources, especially if the experienced UAP has to spend a significant amount of time supervising the new hire.
Choice D rationale
Assessing the newly hired UAP’s competency level by observing the UAP deliver care is the most effective way to ensure adequate care for all clients. This allows the nurse to directly evaluate the UAP’s skills and abilities in a real-world setting, and to provide immediate feedback and guidance as needed.
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