A nurse is assessing a client with a suspected thyroid disorder. Which assessment finding would the nurse most strongly associate with hyperthyroidism?
Unintentional weight loss
Cold intolerance
Decreased energy
Bradycardia
The Correct Answer is A
Rationale:
A. Hyperthyroidism is characterized by an excess of thyroid hormones (T3 and T4), which increase the body’s basal metabolic rate. This accelerates metabolism, leading to weight loss despite normal or increased appetite. Unintentional weight loss is a hallmark clinical manifestation of hyperthyroidism and strongly suggests overactive thyroid function.
B. Cold intolerance is typically associated with hypothyroidism, where decreased thyroid hormone production slows metabolism and reduces heat generation. Clients with hyperthyroidism usually experience heat intolerance due to increased metabolic activity.
C. Fatigue and lethargy are more characteristic of hypothyroidism, resulting from slowed metabolism. In hyperthyroidism, clients often have increased energy, restlessness, and hyperactivity, although extreme hyperthyroidism can eventually lead to fatigue from prolonged hypermetabolic state.
D. Bradycardia (slow heart rate) is associated with hypothyroidism. In contrast, hyperthyroidism often causes tachycardia, palpitations, or increased heart rate, as thyroid hormones stimulate the cardiovascular system.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["2"]
Explanation
Step 1: Identify desired dose and concentration
Desired dose = 50 mg, Concentration = 25 mg/mL
Step 2: Use the formula
Volume (mL) = Desired dose ÷ Concentration
Step 3: Insert values
= 50 ÷ 25
Step 4: Calculate
= 2 mL
Final Answer: 2
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Decreased serum calcium affects bone health and may lead to osteoporosis or muscle weakness, but it is not a direct factor in the development of pressure injuries. While poor calcium levels may indirectly affect mobility, pressure injuries are primarily caused by localized tissue ischemia rather than systemic calcium deficiencies.
B. Increased muscle mass actually provides more padding over bony prominences, which helps protect against pressure injury. Clients with well-developed musculature are generally at lower risk compared with those who have muscle wasting or atrophy.
C. Decreased circulation is a primary risk factor for pressure injury development. Impaired blood flow reduces oxygen and nutrient delivery to tissues, making skin and subcutaneous tissue more susceptible to ischemia and necrosis when exposed to prolonged pressure, friction, or shear. Clients with impaired mobility are especially vulnerable because they cannot shift positions effectively to relieve pressure.
D. Increased collagen strengthens connective tissue and promotes skin integrity. While insufficient or abnormal collagen can contribute to skin breakdown, increased collagen alone does not predispose a client to pressure injuries and is generally protective rather than harmful.
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