A nurse in a clinic is reviewing the laboratory values of a client who has primary hypothyroidism. The nurse should anticipate an elevation of which of the following laboratory values?
Free T4
Thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH)
Serum T3
Serum T4
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason:
In primary hypothyroidism, the thyroid gland is underactive and does not produce sufficient thyroid hormones, including Free T4. Therefore, we would not expect an elevation of Free T4 in primary hypothyroidism; instead, its levels would typically be low or normal.
Choice B reason:
Thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) levels are elevated in primary hypothyroidism because the pituitary gland releases more TSH in an attempt to stimulate the thyroid gland to produce more thyroid hormones. This is a compensatory response to the low levels of circulating thyroid hormones, particularly thyroxine (T4).
Choice C reason:
Serum T3 levels may be low or normal in primary hypothyroidism. T3 is the active form of thyroid hormone and is usually converted from T4. If T4 levels are low, T3 levels may also be affected; however, T3 levels are not the primary diagnostic marker for hypothyroidism and do not typically show elevation in this condition.
Choice D reason:
Serum T4 levels are typically low in primary hypothyroidism because the thyroid gland is not producing enough of this hormone. An elevation of serum T4 would not be expected unless the patient is receiving treatment for hypothyroidism.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Thyroid hormones, particularly when taken in excess, can lead to bone loss and increase the risk of osteoporosis. This is because thyroid hormones can stimulate bone resorption, which is the process where bone tissue is broken down and the minerals are released into the bloodstream.
Choice B reason:
NSAIDs (Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs) are not typically associated with an increased risk of osteoporosis. While long-term use of NSAIDs can have various side effects, they do not directly contribute to bone density loss or osteoporosis.
Choice C reason:
Anticoagulants, such as warfarin, have been associated with an increased risk of osteoporotic fractures. However, the evidence is not as strong as it is for other medications like corticosteroids or thyroid hormones.
Choice D reason:
Cardiac glycosides, used to treat heart conditions, have not been shown to be a direct risk factor for osteoporosis. While they affect heart muscle contractions, they do not have a known impact on bone metabolism.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Alendronate is a bisphosphonate, which is commonly prescribed for Paget's disease of the bone. Bisphosphonates help regulate bone growth and can be a lifelong medication for managing this condition. They work by inhibiting osteoclasts, the cells that break down bone tissue, which helps to normalize the bone remodeling process.
Choice B reason:
Colchicine is used to treat gout and not typically used for Paget's disease. It works by reducing the inflammation caused by uric acid crystals but does not affect the bone remodeling process that is characteristic of Paget's disease.
Choice C reason:
Allopurinol is also used to treat gout by decreasing uric acid production in the body. Like colchicine, it is not used to treat Paget's disease because it does not address the abnormal bone metabolism associated with the condition.
Choice D reason:
Prednisone is a corticosteroid used to reduce inflammation in various conditions. While it may be used in some cases to manage pain and inflammation associated with Paget's disease, it is not a primary treatment for the disease itself and does not regulate bone growth like bisphosphonates do.
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