The nurse is assessing a patient with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Which finding would the nurse expect to observe? Select all that apply. One, some, or all responses may be correct.

Choice A reason: Stretch marks, also known as striae, are not specific to ascites. They can occur due to rapid weight gain or loss, pregnancy, or other conditions that cause the skin to stretch. While they may be present in individuals with ascites due to rapid abdominal expansion, they are not a primary clinical manifestation of ascites.

Choice B reason: Foul-smelling breath, or halitosis, is not a typical symptom of ascites. It can be associated with various conditions, including poor oral hygiene, gastrointestinal disorders, or liver disease, but it is not a direct indicator of ascites.

Choice C reason: Increased abdominal girth is a primary clinical manifestation of ascites. Ascites is characterized by the accumulation of fluid in the peritoneal cavity, leading to noticeable abdominal distension. This symptom is often accompanied by a feeling of fullness or bloating.

Choice D reason: Visible distended veins, particularly around the abdomen, can be a sign of ascites. This occurs due to increased pressure in the abdominal veins as a result of fluid accumulation. The veins become more prominent and visible under the skin.

Choice E reason: Rapid weight gain is another key indicator of ascites. The accumulation of fluid in the abdomen leads to a significant increase in body weight over a short period. This rapid weight gain is often one of the first signs that prompts further investigation for ascites.

Choice A Reason:

Weight loss.

Weight loss is a common symptom of hyperthyroidism. This condition speeds up the body’s metabolism, causing the body to burn calories more quickly than usual. Despite an increased appetite, individuals with hyperthyroidism often experience significant weight loss. This symptom is a direct result of the overproduction of thyroid hormones, which increases the metabolic rate.

Choice B Reason:

Intolerance to cold.

Intolerance to cold is not typically associated with hyperthyroidism; it is more commonly a symptom of hypothyroidism. Hyperthyroidism usually causes heat intolerance due to the increased metabolic rate, which raises the body’s temperature. Therefore, this choice is not relevant to hyperthyroidism.

Choice C Reason:

An elevated systolic blood pressure.

An elevated systolic blood pressure can be a symptom of hyperthyroidism. The increased levels of thyroid hormones can cause the heart to work harder, leading to higher blood pressure. This symptom is important to monitor as it can lead to further cardiovascular complications if left untreated.

Choice D Reason:

A heart rate of 90 bpm.

A heart rate of 90 bpm is within the normal range for adults and is not specifically indicative of hyperthyroidism. Hyperthyroidism typically causes a rapid or irregular heartbeat, often exceeding 100 bpm. Therefore, this choice does not accurately reflect a clinical manifestation of hyperthyroidism.

Choice E Reason:

Increased fatigability.

Increased fatigability is a common symptom of hyperthyroidism. Despite the increased metabolic rate, individuals with hyperthyroidism often feel tired and weak. This paradoxical symptom occurs because the body’s systems are overworked and cannot sustain the heightened activity levels, leading to fatigue.