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 B
Explanation
A) Place the child in a tub bath of tepid water: While tepid water can help in some situations of hyperthermia, it is not suitable for hypothermia. A more controlled and gradual rewarming method is necessary to prevent further complications such as rewarming shock.
B) Cover the child's head with a hat: Covering the child's head with a hat is an important step in rewarming because a significant amount of body heat is lost through the head. This helps in retaining body heat and stabilizing the child’s temperature.
C) Administer acetaminophen every 4 hr: Acetaminophen is typically used for reducing fever and managing pain. It is not indicated for treating hypothermia, as it does not aid in rewarming the body or addressing the underlying hypothermic condition.
D) Obtain a specimen for blood cultures: While obtaining blood cultures might be necessary if there is a suspicion of infection, it is not a primary intervention for treating hypothermia. Immediate focus should be on rewarming and stabilizing the child.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A) A school-age child who is 2 days postoperative following an appendectomy and has a nasogastric tube: While this child requires regular monitoring and care, they are in a stable postoperative phase and do not show signs of acute distress that necessitate immediate attention over other clients.
B) A preschooler awaiting discharge instructions prior to leaving the hospital: This client is stable enough to be considered for discharge. While discharge instructions are important, they do not take priority over a client with potential respiratory distress.
C) A toddler who has a respiratory rate of 54/min: This client exhibits a significantly elevated respiratory rate, which can indicate respiratory distress or a serious underlying condition. Immediate assessment and intervention are necessary to ensure the toddler's airway and breathing are managed appropriately.
D) A school-age child who reports nausea following chemotherapy: While nausea following chemotherapy is uncomfortable and needs management, it is a known side effect and typically not life-threatening. This client's condition is less urgent compared to a toddler showing signs of potential respiratory distress.
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