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."
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.
(c) "You could be making healthier food choices.":
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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A) At the angle of the mandible:
Lymph nodes located at the angle of the mandible are the submandibular lymph nodes, not the occipital lymph nodes. These nodes are situated below the jawline and are assessed when looking for infections or abnormalities in the oral cavity and throat.
B) Temporal area:
The temporal area is not a typical location for lymph node palpation. This region is primarily related to the temporal artery and muscles, not to lymph nodes. Thus, palpating for lymph nodes here would not be relevant.
C) The posterior base of the skull:
The occipital lymph nodes are located at the posterior base of the skull, near the nape of the neck. These nodes drain the scalp and are assessed when there are scalp infections or other related conditions.
D) Area in front of the ears:
The lymph nodes in front of the ears are the preauricular lymph nodes. These nodes drain the eyes and the surrounding skin. They are not the occipital lymph nodes, which are situated at the back of the head.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A) Assess the nasolacrimal sac: Excessive tearing, or epiphora, can result from an obstruction in the nasolacrimal duct, which drains tears from the eye into the nasal cavity. By assessing the nasolacrimal sac, the nurse can determine if there is any blockage or infection causing the excessive tearing, making this the most appropriate next step.
B) Test pupillary reaction to light: While testing pupillary reaction to light is important in a comprehensive eye exam, it does not directly address the issue of excessive tearing. This test is more focused on evaluating neurological function and overall eye health.
C) Inspect the palpebral conjunctiva: Inspecting the palpebral conjunctiva can help identify inflammation, infection, or foreign bodies that may cause discomfort or tearing. However, it does not specifically address the cause of excessive tearing related to nasolacrimal duct obstruction.
D) Perform the eye positions test: The eye positions test assesses extraocular muscle function and cranial nerve integrity. While it is important for a complete eye examination, it is not directly related to the symptom of excessive tearing, which is more likely due to issues with tear drainage.
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