The nurse is caring for a client admitted to the unit for possible hyperthyroidism. The client describes weakness, nervousness, a racing heartbeat, and recent weight loss of 15 pounds (6.8 kg). Which action should the nurse implement first?

Pace the client's care to provide periods of rest.

Make arrangements for radioactive iodine therapy.

Administer beta-adrenergic blocking agent.

Monitor the client's vital signs frequently.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is D

Choice A reason: Pacing the client's care to provide periods of rest is important for managing fatigue and preventing overexertion. However, it is not the first action the nurse should take in this situation. Monitoring vital signs is crucial to assess the client's current condition and detect any immediate complications.

Choice B reason: Making arrangements for radioactive iodine therapy is a treatment option for hyperthyroidism. However, this is not the first action the nurse should take. The nurse needs to assess the client's condition and stabilize any immediate issues before considering long-term treatment options.

Choice C reason: Administering a beta-adrenergic blocking agent can help manage symptoms such as a racing heartbeat and nervousness. While this may be part of the treatment plan, it is not the first action the nurse should take. Monitoring vital signs is essential to determine the appropriate interventions.

Choice D reason: Monitoring the client's vital signs frequently is the first action the nurse should take. This helps assess the client's current condition, detect any immediate complications, and guide further interventions. It is crucial to ensure the client's stability before implementing other care measures.

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Choice A reason: A haematocrit of 30% is below the normal range and indicates anaemia, which is common in hypothyroidism. However, it does not require immediate intervention compared to a decline in consciousness.

Choice B reason: Facial puffiness and periorbital enema are common signs of hypothyroidism but do not require immediate intervention. They are more indicative of chronic, rather than acute, issues.

Choice C reason: A further decline in level of consciousness is critical and warrants immediate action. It can indicate a myxoedema coma, a severe complication of hypothyroidism that is life-threatening and requires urgent treatment.

Choice D reason: Cold and dry skin is a common symptom of hypothyroidism but does not require immediate intervention compared to a decline in consciousness.

A. Send the client to x-ray for a flat plate of the abdomen. B. Give a prescribed analgesic for temperature above 101°F (38.3°C). C. Place an indwelling urinary catheter and attach to a bedside drainage unit. D. Insert a nasogastric tube (NGT) and attach to low intermittent suction.

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

Choice A reason: Sending the client to x-ray for a flat plate of the abdomen is important for diagnosing the underlying cause of symptoms, such as bowel obstruction or severe inflammation. However, in the immediate situation, it is essential to relieve the client's symptoms and stabilize their condition first.

Choice B reason: Giving a prescribed analgesic for temperature above 101°F (38.3°C) can help manage fever and pain. However, it is not the first priority. The client’s primary issue is abdominal cramping, nausea, and vomiting, which need to be addressed urgently to prevent further complications.

Choice C reason: Placing an indwelling urinary catheter and attaching it to a bedside drainage unit may be necessary if there are urinary retention concerns. However, this intervention does not directly address the gastrointestinal symptoms that are currently most troubling for the client.

Choice D reason: Inserting a nasogastric tube (NGT) and attaching it to low intermittent suction is the most immediate priority. This action helps to decompress the stomach, relieve nausea and vomiting, and prevent further complications such as aspiration or worsening of the obstruction. It provides immediate symptomatic relief and allows for better management of the client's condition.

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The nurse is caring for a client admitted to the unit for possible hyperthyroidism. The client describes weakness, nervousness, a racing heartbeat, and recent weight loss of 15 pounds (6.8 kg). Which action should the nurse implement first?

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