A client who has a history of hypothyroidism was admitted with lethargy and confusion. Which additional finding warrants immediate action by the nurse?
Haematocrit of 30% (0.30 volume fraction).
Facial puffiness and periorbital enema.
Further decline in level of consciousness.
Cold and dry skin.
The Correct Answer is C
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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Determining if the client is using an inhaler before exercising is the most immediate and relevant action. Inhalers, particularly bronchodilators, can help prevent exercise-induced bronchoconstriction by relaxing the airway muscles and reducing mucus production.
Choice B reason: Assessing the client for signs and symptoms of upper airway infection is important but may not be directly related to the episodes triggered by exercise. This action might be more appropriate if there are other indications of infection.
Choice C reason: Reviewing the client's routine asthma management prescriptions is a good practice, but it should come after addressing the immediate concern of managing exercise-induced symptoms. Ensuring proper inhaler use can have a more immediate impact.
Choice D reason: Teaching the client to use pursed-lip breathing when episodes occur is useful for managing dyspneal but does not address the prevention of exercise-induced bronchoconstriction as effectively as using an inhaler.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Palpating the lymph nodes is not a standard technique for assessing early signs of rheumatoid arthritis. Lymph node enlargement can occur due to various reasons, but it is not specific to rheumatoid arthritis.
Choice B reason: Observing the client's fingers is crucial because early signs of rheumatoid arthritis often present in the small joints of the hands and fingers. Symptoms such as swelling, redness, stiffness, and deformities can be evident in these areas.
Choice C reason: Observing the skin for lesions is not specific to rheumatoid arthritis. While some skin conditions can be associated with autoimmune diseases, rheumatoid arthritis primarily affects the joints.
Choice D reason: Palpating large joints for nodules might be relevant in more advanced stages of rheumatoid arthritis, but early signs are typically observed in the small joints of the hands and fingers.
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