At the beginning of the shift, a nurse receives report on the following four patients. Which patient should the nurse place priority on assessing first?
A 40-year-old patient with Cushing syndrome and gynecomastia.
A 58-year-old patient with Addison's disease who is exhibiting confusion.
A 45-year-old patient with Graves' disease and exophthalmos.
A 47-year-old patient with hypothyroidism who is asking for a warm blanket.
A 47-year-old patient with hypothyroidism who is asking for a warm blanket.
The Correct Answer is B
A. A 40-year-old patient with Cushing syndrome and gynecomastia: While Cushing syndrome requires ongoing management and monitoring, gynecomastia alone is not an urgent concern compared to the symptoms described in option B.
B. A 58-year-old patient with Addison's disease who is exhibiting confusion: Addison's disease can lead to adrenal insufficiency, and confusion could indicate an adrenal crisis or severe electrolyte imbalance. This is a critical situation requiring immediate assessment to prevent severe complications.
C. A 45-year-old patient with Graves' disease and exophthalmos: Graves' disease with exophthalmos is significant but does not typically represent an immediate life-threatening condition compared to the symptoms associated with Addison's disease.
D. A 47-year-old patient with hypothyroidism who is asking for a warm blanket: This patient’s request for a warm blanket suggests they might be experiencing symptoms related to hypothyroidism, such as feeling cold. However, this is less urgent compared to the confusion and potential crisis in option B.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP): BNP levels are elevated in heart failure due to the heart's response to increased pressure and volume overload. This biomarker is used specifically to diagnose and assess the severity of heart failure.
B. Troponin I: This is a marker for myocardial injury and is used to diagnose acute myocardial infarction rather than heart failure.
C. Blood urea nitrogen (BUN): While elevated BUN can be associated with renal dysfunction or fluid overload in heart failure, it is not specific to diagnosing heart failure.
D. Platelet levels: These are not directly related to diagnosing heart failure and do not provide information about cardiac function.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. A 40-year-old patient with Cushing syndrome and gynecomastia: While Cushing syndrome requires ongoing management and monitoring, gynecomastia alone is not an urgent concern compared to the symptoms described in option B.
B. A 58-year-old patient with Addison's disease who is exhibiting confusion: Addison's disease can lead to adrenal insufficiency, and confusion could indicate an adrenal crisis or severe electrolyte imbalance. This is a critical situation requiring immediate assessment to prevent severe complications.
C. A 45-year-old patient with Graves' disease and exophthalmos: Graves' disease with exophthalmos is significant but does not typically represent an immediate life-threatening condition compared to the symptoms associated with Addison's disease.
D. A 47-year-old patient with hypothyroidism who is asking for a warm blanket: This patient’s request for a warm blanket suggests they might be experiencing symptoms related to hypothyroidism, such as feeling cold. However, this is less urgent compared to the confusion and potential crisis in option B.
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