A client who has hypothyroidism will be undergoing surgery for a total knee replacement. When planning care for this client, the nurse understands which of the following to be true for people who have hypothyroidism?
They are more prone to hyperthermia and may require cooling measures.
Their levothyroxine should be held for 3 days prior to and after the surgery.
They are at risk of developing tachycardia and should be given propranolol.
They are more sensitive to the effects of opioids and may require lower doses.
The Correct Answer is D
A. They are more prone to hyperthermia and may require cooling measures: Hypothyroidism typically leads to hypothermia (lower body temperature) rather than hyperthermia. Clients with hypothyroidism are more likely to experience difficulty maintaining normal body temperature.
B. Their levothyroxine should be held for 3 days prior to and after the surgery: Levothyroxine should not be held before or after surgery without specific guidance from the healthcare provider. Maintaining consistent thyroid hormone levels is crucial for clients with hypothyroidism.
C. They are at risk of developing tachycardia and should be given propranolol: Hypothyroidism is more commonly associated with bradycardia (slow heart rate) rather than tachycardia (fast heart rate). Propranolol is used to manage symptoms of hyperthyroidism, not hypothyroidism.
D. They are more sensitive to the effects of opioids and may require lower doses: Clients with hypothyroidism often have a reduced metabolic rate, which can increase their sensitivity to medications, including opioids. Therefore, they may require lower doses of opioids to avoid adverse effects.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Hypercalcemia and hyperkalemia: These are not typical indicators of parathyroid damage. Hypercalcemia usually results from overactive parathyroid glands, while hyperkalemia is not a common result of parathyroid damage.
B. Muscle twitching and tingling around the mouth: These symptoms are indicative of hypoparathyroidism, a condition that can occur if the parathyroid glands are damaged during thyroid surgery. This results in hypocalcemia (low calcium levels), which causes neuromuscular symptoms like muscle twitching and tingling.
C. Harsh, vibratory breath sounds: These are not related to parathyroid damage. They may suggest respiratory issues, not problems with calcium regulation.
D. Hyperthermia and hypertension: These are not associated with parathyroid damage. They may be related to other post-surgical complications but not specifically to parathyroid gland injury.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. They are more prone to hyperthermia and may require cooling measures: Hypothyroidism typically leads to hypothermia (lower body temperature) rather than hyperthermia. Clients with hypothyroidism are more likely to experience difficulty maintaining normal body temperature.
B. Their levothyroxine should be held for 3 days prior to and after the surgery: Levothyroxine should not be held before or after surgery without specific guidance from the healthcare provider. Maintaining consistent thyroid hormone levels is crucial for clients with hypothyroidism.
C. They are at risk of developing tachycardia and should be given propranolol: Hypothyroidism is more commonly associated with bradycardia (slow heart rate) rather than tachycardia (fast heart rate). Propranolol is used to manage symptoms of hyperthyroidism, not hypothyroidism.
D. They are more sensitive to the effects of opioids and may require lower doses: Clients with hypothyroidism often have a reduced metabolic rate, which can increase their sensitivity to medications, including opioids. Therefore, they may require lower doses of opioids to avoid adverse effects.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.