A nurse is caring for a client with a new diagnosis of hyperthyroidism. Which symptom is most likely to be reported by this client?
Weight gain
Bradycardia
Heat intolerance
Constipation
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A reason: Weight gain is associated with hypothyroidism, not hyperthyroidism. Hyperthyroidism increases metabolic rate, leading to weight loss due to increased calorie expenditure. The thyroid hormones accelerate metabolism, causing catabolism, which contrasts with the client’s likely symptom of weight loss, not gain, in hyperthyroidism.
Choice B reason: Bradycardia, or slow heart rate, occurs in hypothyroidism due to decreased metabolic rate. Hyperthyroidism causes tachycardia, as elevated thyroid hormones increase sympathetic activity, raising heart rate and cardiac output. The client’s symptoms would likely include a rapid heart rate, not bradycardia, in this condition.
Choice C reason: Heat intolerance is a classic symptom of hyperthyroidism due to increased metabolic rate from elevated thyroid hormones. This causes excessive heat production, leading to sweating and discomfort in warm environments. The symptom aligns with the hypermetabolic state, making it the most likely to be reported.
Choice D reason: Constipation is associated with hypothyroidism, where decreased metabolism slows gastrointestinal motility. Hyperthyroidism increases motility, often causing diarrhea. The client with hyperthyroidism is unlikely to report constipation, as their condition accelerates digestive processes, contrasting with the slowed motility seen in hypothyroidism.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: Increasing sodium intake raises blood pressure by promoting fluid retention, increasing vascular volume, and straining the cardiovascular system. Hypertensive clients need sodium restriction to reduce fluid overload and vascular resistance, making this recommendation harmful, as it exacerbates hypertension rather than controlling it.
Choice B reason: A diet high in saturated fats contributes to atherosclerosis, increasing vascular resistance and blood pressure. It also raises LDL cholesterol, worsening cardiovascular risk. Hypertensive clients require heart-healthy diets low in saturated fats to reduce blood pressure and protect against heart disease, making this inappropriate.
Choice C reason: The DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, and low-fat dairy, reduces blood pressure by providing potassium, magnesium, and fiber. These nutrients lower vascular resistance and promote vasodilation, improving cardiovascular health. It is evidence-based and recommended for hypertension management, making it the best choice.
Choice D reason: Limiting potassium-rich foods is not recommended for hypertension, as potassium promotes vasodilation and reduces blood pressure by counteracting sodium’s effects. Potassium-rich foods, like fruits, are part of the DASH diet, which helps control hypertension, making this recommendation incorrect for blood pressure management.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: A nasal cannula at 2 L/min delivers low-flow oxygen (24–28% FiO2), suitable for COPD clients to maintain oxygen saturation without suppressing their hypoxic drive. COPD patients rely on low oxygen levels to stimulate breathing, and low-flow oxygen prevents hyperoxia, which could reduce respiratory drive.
Choice B reason: A simple face mask at 8 L/min delivers 40–60% FiO2, which is too high for COPD clients. High oxygen levels can suppress the hypoxic drive, leading to hypoventilation and CO2 retention, worsening respiratory acidosis. Low-flow oxygen is preferred to balance oxygenation and respiratory drive.
Choice C reason: A non-rebreather mask at 15 L/min delivers 60–80% FiO2, inappropriate for COPD clients. High oxygen concentrations risk suppressing the hypoxic drive, causing CO2 retention and respiratory failure. COPD management prioritizes low-flow oxygen to maintain safe oxygenation without disrupting respiratory regulation.
Choice D reason: A Venturi mask at 40% FiO2 delivers precise oxygen concentrations but is still too high for stable COPD clients. High FiO2 can suppress the hypoxic drive, leading to hypoventilation. A nasal cannula at 2 L/min is safer, providing adequate oxygenation while preserving respiratory drive.
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