Nursing Elites

1. An incoherent female client with a history of hypothyroidism is brought to the emergency department by the rescue squad. Physical and laboratory findings reveal hypothermia, hypoventilation, respiratory acidosis, bradycardia, hypotension, and nonpitting edema of the face and pretibial area. Knowing that these findings suggest severe hypothyroidism, Nurse Libby prepares to take emergency action to prevent the potential complication of:

• A. Thyroid storm.
• B. Cretinism.
• C. Myxedema coma.
• D. Hashimoto's thyroiditis.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The scenario described with hypothermia, hypoventilation, respiratory acidosis, bradycardia, hypotension, and nonpitting edema of the face and pretibial area is indicative of myxedema coma, a severe and life-threatening complication of hypothyroidism. Myxedema coma requires immediate emergency treatment to prevent further deterioration. Choice A, thyroid storm, is a complication of hyperthyroidism characterized by an increase in body temperature, heart rate, and blood pressure. Choice B, cretinism, refers to untreated congenital hypothyroidism leading to mental and physical growth retardation. Choice D, Hashimoto's thyroiditis, is an autoimmune condition leading to hypothyroidism but does not present with the acute, life-threatening symptoms described in the scenario.

2. A client with hyperthyroidism is prescribed radioactive iodine therapy. The nurse should monitor for which of the following potential side effects?

• A. Hypothyroidism
• B. Hyperthyroidism
• C. Hypercalcemia
• D. Hyperglycemia

Correct answer: A

Rationale: When a client with hyperthyroidism undergoes radioactive iodine therapy, the treatment aims to reduce thyroid hormone production by destroying thyroid tissue. As a result, there is a high likelihood of developing hypothyroidism as a side effect. Monitoring for hypothyroidism is crucial post-treatment. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because the therapeutic goal is to address hyperthyroidism by inducing hypothyroidism through the treatment.

3. A client with DM visits the health care clinic. The client's diabetes has been well controlled with glyburide (Diabeta), 5 mg PO daily, but recently the fasting blood glucose has been running 180-200 mg/dl. Which medication, if added to the client's regimen, may have contributed to the hyperglycemia?

• A. Atenolol (Tenormin)
• B. Prednisone (Deltasone)
• C. Phenelzine (Nardil)
• D. Allopurinol (Zyloprim)

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Prednisone is a corticosteroid that can cause hyperglycemia by increasing glucose production in the liver. Atenolol (Choice A) is a beta-blocker that typically does not affect blood glucose levels significantly. Phenelzine (Choice C) is a monoamine oxidase inhibitor used for depression and does not directly impact blood glucose levels. Allopurinol (Choice D) is a xanthine oxidase inhibitor used to manage gout and does not contribute to hyperglycemia.

4. The client has hyperparathyroidism. Which of the following dietary instructions should the nurse provide?

• A. Increase calcium intake
• B. Limit phosphorus intake
• C. Increase fluid intake
• D. Limit vitamin D intake

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is to 'Increase fluid intake.' This is because increasing fluid intake helps prevent kidney stones, a common complication of hyperparathyroidism. While calcium is involved in the condition, increasing calcium intake is not recommended as it can exacerbate hypercalcemia, which is commonly present in hyperparathyroidism. Limiting phosphorus intake is not directly related to managing hyperparathyroidism. Limiting vitamin D intake is also not typically necessary in managing hyperparathyroidism, as it is usually a calcium and PTH-related issue.

5. The client with newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes mellitus is being taught about self-care management. Which of the following statements indicates a need for further teaching?

• A. I will rotate my injection sites to prevent skin damage.
• B. I can stop taking my medication if my blood sugar is normal.
• C. I should monitor my blood sugar levels regularly.
• D. I should follow a healthy diet and exercise regularly.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Clients with type 2 diabetes mellitus should not stop taking their medication even if blood sugar levels are normal. This is because ongoing management is necessary to control blood sugar levels and prevent complications. Choice A is correct as rotating injection sites helps prevent skin damage and improves insulin absorption. Choice C is correct as regular monitoring of blood sugar levels is vital for managing diabetes effectively. Choice D is correct as following a healthy diet and exercising regularly are key components of diabetes management.

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