A client is admitted with Parkinson's disease. Which symptoms are considered criteria used to diagnose this disorder? Select all that apply.

Normal ranges for thyroid function tests, which would indicate an appropriate dose of levothyroxine, include:

- TSH (Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone): 0.4 - 4.0 mIU/L

- Free T4 (Thyroxine): 0.9 - 1.7 ng/dL

- Free T3 (Triiodothyronine): 2.0 - 4.4 pg/mL

Choice A reason: Monitoring platelet count is important in sepsis as thrombocytopenia can occur due to disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC).

Choice B reason: Urine specific gravity is not typically monitored for sepsis unless there is a concern for renal function or fluid balance.

Choice C reason: Lactate levels are monitored in sepsis to assess the severity of septic shock and tissue hypoperfusion.

Choice D reason: PaO2 is monitored to assess oxygenation status, which can be compromised in sepsis due to respiratory dysfunction.

Choice E reason: Serum ammonia is not typically monitored for sepsis unless there is a concern for hepatic function or encephalopathy.

Choice A reason: A soft diet with thin liquids may be recommended for patients with Parkinson's disease who have difficulty swallowing (dysphagia), but it is not the most appropriate intervention for all patients. Dysphagia is common in Parkinson's disease due to impaired muscle movement, and a soft diet can help prevent choking and aspiration.

Choice B reason: Assessing for orthostatic hypotension is crucial in the care of patients with Parkinson's disease. Orthostatic hypotension is a common non-motor symptom where there is a significant drop in blood pressure upon standing. Normal blood pressure should not drop more than 20 mm Hg systolic or 10 mm Hg diastolic within 2 to 5 minutes of standing². This condition can increase the risk of falls, which is a significant concern in this population.

Choice C reason: Exophthalmos, the bulging of the eyes, is not associated with Parkinson's disease. It is typically related to thyroid eye disease, such as Graves' disease, and would not be a relevant assessment for a Parkinson's patient unless there is a known co-existing thyroid condition.

Choice D reason: Limiting fluids to prevent urinary incontinence is not an appropriate intervention for Parkinson's disease. Adequate hydration is essential, and urinary incontinence should be managed with other strategies, such as bladder training, scheduled toileting, and possibly medication, depending on the cause.