A nurse is collecting data from a client who has Cushing's syndrome. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?
Jaundice
Muscle rigidity
Weight loss
Easily bruised
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A Reason:
Jaundice, characterized by yellowing of the skin and eyes, is typically associated with liver dysfunction or conditions affecting the breakdown of red blood cells, not directly linked to Cushing's syndrome. While some liver abnormalities can be seen in Cushing's syndrome due to metabolic changes, jaundice is not a typical manifestation of this condition.
Choice B Reason:
Muscle rigidity is more commonly associated with conditions like Parkinson's disease, dystonia, or certain muscle disorders. In Cushing's syndrome, muscle weakness due to protein breakdown and muscle wasting is a more expected finding rather than muscle rigidity.
Choice C Reason:
Weight loss is incorrect. Weight gain, particularly in the central part of the body (trunk) and face (creating a "moon face"), is a more common characteristic of Cushing's syndrome. The excess cortisol often leads to increased fat deposits, especially in these areas, rather than weight loss.
Cushing's syndrome is characterized by an excess of cortisol in the body, either due to the body producing too much cortisol or from long-term use of corticosteroid medications. Considering this condition, the nurse should expect the following finding:
Choice D Reason:
Easily bruised is correct. Excess cortisol can lead to the thinning of the skin and weakening of blood vessels, making individuals with Cushing's syndrome prone to easy bruising. Other common findings associated with Cushing's syndrome include weight gain (especially in the trunk and face), muscle weakness, high blood pressure, fatigue, and changes in skin such as thinning and purple stretch marks.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","C","D"]
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Maintaining skin integrity over the blisters is correct. Blisters form as a protective mechanism for the skin underneath. Popping or breaking blisters increases the risk of infection as it exposes the raw skin to bacteria and other contaminants.
Choice B Reason:
Applying ice to the larger blisters is incorrect.
Reason: Applying ice directly to a burn, especially to blisters, can further damage the skin and exacerbate the injury. Ice can cause additional skin damage and can potentially increase pain and delay healing.
Choice C Reason:
Administering ibuprofen for pain is correct. Ibuprofen is an effective over-the-counter pain reliever that can help manage the discomfort caused by a minor burn. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce swelling associated with burns.
Choice D Reason:
Running cool water over the affected area is correct. Running cool (not cold) water over the burn helps to cool down the burned area, soothes the pain, and helps prevent further damage to the skin. It's recommended to run water over the burn for around 10-15 minutes to effectively cool the area.
Choice E Reason:
Allowing the affected area to remain open to air is incorrect. Keeping a minor burn uncovered can increase the risk of infection as it exposes the burn to external contaminants. Covering the burn with a sterile, non-stick dressing can protect it from further damage and reduce the risk of infection.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Absence of Chvostek's sign is a wrong indication. Chvostek's sign is a twitching of facial muscles in response to tapping the facial nerve and is typically associated with low blood calcium levels (hypocalcemia). It's not directly related to hyperglycemia or high blood sugar levels. Hyperglycemia refers to high blood sugar levels, commonly associated with diabetes mellitus.
Choice B Reason:
Presence of Kussmaul respirations is a right indication. Kussmaul respirations are deep, rapid, and labored breathing patterns often seen in individuals with diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), a severe complication of diabetes characterized by significantly high blood sugar levels and the presence of ketones in the blood and urine. This type of breathing pattern is the body's attempt to compensate for the acidic state caused by high blood sugar and the buildup of ketones.
Choice C Reason:
Presence of diaphoresis is a wrong indication. Diaphoresis refers to excessive sweating, which can occur due to various reasons such as physical activity, heat, stress, or certain medical conditions. While hyperglycemia can cause symptoms like increased thirst and frequent urination, diaphoresis alone is not a specific indicator of high blood sugar levels.
Choice D Reason:
Absence of urinary ketones is a wrong indication. The presence of urinary ketones indicates the body is breaking down fat for energy, which commonly occurs during periods of insufficient insulin (such as in hyperglycemia or diabetic ketoacidosis). However, the absence of urinary ketones doesn't necessarily rule out hyperglycemia. It's possible for hyperglycemia to be present without ketones in the urine, especially in the early stages or when the body is still managing blood sugar levels without significant ketone production.
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