A nurse is assessing an adolescent who has an exacerbation of Graves' disease (Hyperthyroidism). Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?
Heat intolerance
Weight gain
Bradycardia
Lethargy
The Correct Answer is A
A) Heat intolerance.
Explanation: This statement is true. Heat intolerance is a common symptom of hyperthyroidism, including Graves' disease. People with hyperthyroidism often have an overactive thyroid gland that produces an excessive amount of thyroid hormones. This can lead to an increased metabolic rate, which in turn makes them sensitive to heat. They may feel excessively warm, sweat more than usual, and have difficulty tolerating hot weather.
B) Weight gain.
Explanation: This statement is false. Weight gain is not a typical finding in Graves' disease or hyperthyroidism. In fact, one of the hallmark symptoms of hyperthyroidism is unexplained weight loss despite increased appetite. The elevated levels of thyroid hormones cause an increase in metabolism, leading to weight loss.
C) Bradycardia.
Explanation: This statement is false. Bradycardia refers to an abnormally slow heart rate, typically below 60 beats per minute. In hyperthyroidism, the heart rate is often elevated rather than slowed down. The excessive thyroid hormones can lead to an increased heart rate (tachycardia) and palpitations. It's important to note that if the question were about hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid), bradycardia might be more relevant.
D) Lethargy.
Explanation: This statement is false. Lethargy, or a state of extreme tiredness and lack of energy, is more commonly associated with hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) rather than hyperthyroidism. Hyperthyroidism usually leads to symptoms of increased energy, restlessness, and hyperactivity due to the elevated metabolic rate caused by excess thyroid hormones.

Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. "My son might complain of feeling shaky when he has a low blood glucose level."
Explanation: Correct Choice. Shaking or feeling shaky is a common symptom of low blood glucose levels, also known as hypoglycemia. When blood sugar drops too low, the body releases adrenaline, causing shaking or trembling. This response is indicative of an understanding of hypoglycemia symptoms.
B. "My son might have nausea and vomiting with hypoglycemia."
Explanation: Nausea and vomiting are not typical symptoms of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). They are more commonly associated with hyperglycemia (high blood sugar) or other conditions. This statement is not accurate in the context of hypoglycemia.
C. "Sweating can occur with hyperglycemia."
Explanation: Sweating is more commonly associated with hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) rather than hyperglycemia (high blood sugar). When blood sugar levels drop too low, the body can respond with sweating as part of the adrenaline release. Sweating is not a typical symptom of hyperglycemia.
D. "The onset of low blood glucose usually occurs slowly."
Explanation: The onset of low blood glucose (hypoglycemia) can vary. It can occur suddenly, especially if the individual takes too much insulin or diabetes medication, leading to a rapid drop in blood sugar. The correct understanding is that the onset of low blood glucose can be rapid and not always slow.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Polyuria (excessive urination) is not a symptom of hypoglycemia; it is more commonly associated with hyperglycemia (high blood sugar).
B. Deep rapid respirations are more characteristic of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), a complication of uncontrolled diabetes that leads to high blood sugar levels and metabolic acidosis.
C. Dry, flushed skin is not a typical symptom of hypoglycemia; it might be associated with conditions like dehydration or heat exposure, but not with low blood sugar.
D. Tachycardia
Explanation: The symptoms described by the adolescent (feeling shaky, difficulty speaking, difficulty concentrating) along with a blood glucose level of 55 mg/dL indicate hypoglycemia, which is low blood sugar. Tachycardia, or a rapid heart rate, is a common physiological response to hypoglycemia. The body increases the heart rate in an attempt to improve blood flow and deliver glucose to the brain and other vital organs. This is part of the body's fight-or-flight response to low blood sugar.
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