An adult client with extreme fatigue, weight gain, cold intolerance, and bradycardia is diagnosed with hypothyroidism. Which laboratory findings is this client likely to exhibit?
Increased triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4) and decreased thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH).
Increased triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH).
Decreased triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4) and increased thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH).
Decreased thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), triiodothyronine (T3), and thyroxine (T4).
The Correct Answer is C
Hypothyroidism is characterized by deficient production of thyroid hormones by the thyroid gland, leading to a decrease in circulating levels of triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4). As a compensatory mechanism, the pituitary gland releases increased amounts of thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) in an attempt to stimulate thyroid hormone production.
A) Increased triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4) and decreased thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH):
This pattern of laboratory findings is not consistent with hypothyroidism. Hypothyroidism is characterized by decreased levels of T3 and T4 due to impaired thyroid function, leading to increased TSH levels as a compensatory response. Therefore, this option is incorrect.
B) Increased triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH):
While TSH levels are typically increased in hypothyroidism, T3 levels are usually decreased. Therefore, the combination of increased T3 and TSH is not indicative of hypothyroidism. This option is incorrect.
C) Decreased triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4) and increased thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH):
Correct. In hypothyroidism, there is a decrease in both T3 and T4 levels due to impaired thyroid function. As a compensatory mechanism, the pituitary gland releases increased amounts of TSH to stimulate the thyroid gland. Therefore, this pattern of laboratory findings is consistent with hypothyroidism.
D) Decreased thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), triiodothyronine (T3), and thyroxine (T4):
Decreased levels of TSH, T3, and T4 are not indicative of hypothyroidism. Hypothyroidism is characterized by elevated TSH levels and decreased T3 and T4 levels. Therefore, this option is incorrect.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Gastric carcinoma:
Helicobacter pylori infection is a known risk factor for the development of gastric carcinoma, or stomach cancer. Long-term follow-up is essential for clients treated for gastric ulcers caused by H. pylori infection to monitor for any signs or symptoms of gastric malignancy, such as persistent abdominal pain, unexplained weight loss, dysphagia, or gastrointestinal bleeding. Regular surveillance with endoscopic examinations may be recommended to detect any precancerous or cancerous changes in the gastric mucosa.
B. Hypokalemia:
Hypokalemia, or low potassium levels, is not directly associated with gastric ulcers caused by H. pylori infection. While certain medications used in the treatment of gastric ulcers, such as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) or H2-receptor antagonists, may increase the risk of hypokalemia, it is not a long-term complication specifically related to H. pylori infection.
C. Kidney stones:
Kidney stones, or nephrolithiasis, are not directly associated with gastric ulcers caused by H. pylori infection. Kidney stones typically form in the kidneys and urinary tract due to factors such as dehydration, dietary factors, or metabolic disorders. While certain conditions, such as chronic kidney disease, may be associated with gastric ulcers, kidney stones are not a typical long-term complication.
D. Celiac disease:
Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder characterized by an abnormal immune response to gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. It is not directly associated with gastric ulcers caused by H. pylori infection. Celiac disease primarily affects the small intestine, leading to inflammation and damage to the intestinal lining in response to gluten ingestion. While individuals with celiac disease may experience gastrointestinal symptoms, they are not at increased risk for gastric ulcers specifically related to H. pylori infection.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
The clinical manifestations described in the scenario, including lethargy, difficulty talking, hypertension (blood pressure of 146/122 mm Hg), and elevated urine specific gravity (1.055), are indicative of Syndrome of Inappropriate Antidiuretic Hormone (SIADH). Here's a breakdown of the rationale:
A) Hyposecretion of Antidiuretic Hormone (ADH):
Hyposecretion of ADH would result in decreased levels of ADH, leading to increased urine output (polyuria) and low urine specific gravity. This condition is known as diabetes insipidus, characterized by excessive thirst and dilute urine. The elevated urine specific gravity in the scenario is inconsistent with diabetes insipidus. Therefore, this option is incorrect.
B) Syndrome of Inappropriate Antidiuretic Hormone (SIADH):
Correct. SIADH is a condition characterized by excessive release of antidiuretic hormone (ADH) from the posterior pituitary gland, leading to water retention, dilutional hyponatremia, and concentrated urine. The elevated urine specific gravity (1.055) in the scenario indicates concentrated urine, consistent with SIADH. Additionally, lethargy and difficulty talking are common neurological manifestations of hyponatremia, which can occur as a result of water retention in SIADH. The client's hypertension is likely a compensatory response to hyponatremia-induced cerebral edema. Therefore, SIADH is the most likely diagnosis in this context.
C) Hypopituitarism:
Hypopituitarism refers to deficient production of one or more pituitary hormones, which can lead to a variety of endocrine abnormalities depending on which hormones are affected. While it is possible for hypopituitarism to cause hyponatremia, the other clinical manifestations described in the scenario are not typically associated with this condition. Additionally, the elevated urine specific gravity is not consistent with hypopituitarism-induced hyponatremia. Therefore, this option is less likely.
D) Septic shock:
Septic shock is a life-threatening condition characterized by severe hypotension and tissue hypoperfusion due to systemic infection. While septic shock can cause altered mental status, hypotension (not hypertension), and oliguria (not concentrated urine), it is not typically associated with elevated urine specific gravity. Therefore, septic shock is not the most likely diagnosis in this context.
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