A nurse is reviewing the medical record for a client who has hypothyroidism and is experiencing myxedema coma. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?
Fever
Hypernatremia
Hypertension
Hypoglycemia
The Correct Answer is B
A) Fever: Myxedema coma is characterized by hypothermia rather than fever. The client with myxedema coma may experience a lowered body temperature, reflecting the severe hypothyroidism associated with this condition.
B) Hypernatremia: Hypernatremia, or elevated sodium levels, is a common finding in myxedema coma. This occurs due to impaired renal function and decreased aldosterone levels, leading to an imbalance in electrolytes, including sodium.
C) Hypertension: Typically, myxedema coma presents with hypotension rather than hypertension. The condition is associated with decreased cardiac output and low blood pressure, not elevated blood pressure.
D) Hypoglycemia: In myxedema coma, hypoglycemia is not typically expected. Instead, patients may experience hypoglycemia due to reduced metabolic rate and decreased glycogen stores. However, hyperglycemia is more commonly observed in other endocrine disorders, not specifically in myxedema coma.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A) Consume a diet low in cholesterol: A diet low in cholesterol is beneficial for preventing cholelithiasis (gallstones), as high cholesterol levels can contribute to the formation of cholesterol stones in the gallbladder. By reducing dietary cholesterol, the risk of gallstone formation can be minimized.
B) Increase your intake of refined carbohydrates: Increasing the intake of refined carbohydrates can lead to higher levels of triglycerides and cholesterol in the blood, which can promote the formation of gallstones. This dietary change is not recommended for preventing cholelithiasis.
C) Consume a diet high in calories: A high-calorie diet, especially if it leads to obesity, increases the risk of developing gallstones. Obesity is a significant risk factor for cholelithiasis, and a high-calorie diet can contribute to weight gain and the development of gallstones.
D) Reduce your dietary fiber intake: Dietary fiber helps in reducing cholesterol levels by binding bile acids in the intestines, which in turn can prevent the formation of cholesterol gallstones. Reducing fiber intake would be counterproductive and increase the risk of cholelithiasis.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A) Diarrhea: Metabolic alkalosis is more likely to be associated with constipation rather than diarrhea. Diarrhea is typically a cause of metabolic acidosis due to the loss of bicarbonate in stool, rather than a result of metabolic alkalosis.
B) Bradycardia: Bradycardia is not a typical manifestation of metabolic alkalosis. Alkalosis can lead to arrhythmias, but it generally does not cause a slow heart rate. Instead, tachycardia might occur as the body compensates for the altered acid-base balance.
C) Tinnitus: Tinnitus is not a common symptom of metabolic alkalosis. It is more often associated with aspirin toxicity or other conditions affecting the auditory system, rather than changes in acid-base balance.
D) Tetany: Tetany is a common manifestation of metabolic alkalosis. The alkalosis causes a decrease in ionized calcium levels, which increases neuromuscular excitability and can lead to muscle cramps, spasms, and tetany. This is a key sign for nurses to monitor as it indicates significant electrolyte disturbances associated with the alkalotic state.
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