An overweight African-American female client with a diagnosis of hypothyroidism asks the nurse why she has begun to gain body weight. Which is the best explanation the Medical Surgical nurse can provide?

"Your metabolism is slowing down."

"You should be exercising for longer periods of time."

"You could be making healthier food choices."

"You are retaining fluid."

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is A

(a) "Your metabolism is slowing down.":

Hypothyroidism leads to a decrease in the production of thyroid hormones, which are critical in regulating metabolism. With lower levels of these hormones, the body's metabolic rate decreases, resulting in reduced calorie burning and subsequent weight gain. This explanation directly addresses the underlying cause of weight gain in hypothyroidism.

(b) "You should be exercising for longer periods of time.":

While exercise is beneficial for overall health and can help manage weight, it does not directly address the reason for weight gain in hypothyroidism. The primary issue is the slowed metabolism due to thyroid hormone deficiency, not a lack of exercise.

Although diet plays a role in weight management, this response does not explain the root cause of weight gain in hypothyroidism. The condition itself slows metabolism, leading to weight gain even if dietary habits remain unchanged.

(d) "You are retaining fluid.":

Fluid retention can occur in hypothyroidism but is not the primary reason for weight gain in this condition. The main cause is a decreased metabolic rate, which leads to the accumulation of body fat. Fluid retention might contribute to some weight gain, but it is not the best explanation in this context.

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Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A) Facial edema: Myxedema is a severe form of hypothyroidism that is often characterized by the accumulation of mucopolysaccharides in the skin and other tissues, leading to facial and peripheral edema. This is a classic symptom of myxedema and is expected in clients with this condition.

B) Diarrhea: Diarrhea is more commonly associated with hyperthyroidism rather than hypothyroidism. Clients with myxedema typically experience constipation due to slowed gastrointestinal motility.

C) Tachycardia: Tachycardia is associated with hyperthyroidism. In contrast, myxedema is associated with bradycardia or a slow heart rate because of the overall slowing of the body's metabolic processes.

D) Heat intolerance: Heat intolerance is a symptom of hyperthyroidism. Clients with myxedema usually experience cold intolerance due to decreased metabolic activity and impaired thermoregulation.

A. Concussions in sports and motor vehicle accidents cause the largest number of TBIS in teens. B. Females have twice the risk that males do. C. Falls occur more frequently in the younger population. D. Most firearm incidents are accidental.

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A) Concussions in sports and motor vehicle accidents cause the largest number of TBIs in teens: Adolescents are particularly susceptible to TBIs due to their frequent involvement in contact sports like football, soccer, and hockey, as well as risky behaviors associated with driving. These activities are leading causes of TBIs in this age group, making education on safety measures and proper use of protective equipment essential in prevention efforts.

B) Females have twice the risk that males do: This statement is incorrect. In reality, males are more likely to sustain TBIs than females, especially in adolescence. The higher risk in males is largely due to their greater participation in high-impact sports and higher likelihood of being involved in motor vehicle accidents.

C) Falls occur more frequently in the younger population: Although falls are a significant cause of TBIs in young children and older adults, they are not the primary cause in adolescents. Teens are more likely to sustain TBIs from sports injuries and car accidents, making these areas more relevant for preventive education.

D) Most firearm incidents are accidental: While firearm-related TBIs can occur, they are not as common in the adolescent population compared to injuries from sports and motor vehicle accidents. Prevention efforts should focus more on the activities that pose the highest risk for this age group.

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An overweight African-American female client with a diagnosis of hypothyroidism asks the nurse why she has begun to gain body weight. Which is the best explanation the Medical Surgical nurse can provide?

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