A nurse notes that a client's eyes are protruding slightly from their orbits. Which of the following laboratory findings should the nurse expect?
Decreased calcium levels
Decreased somatotropin levels
Increased glucose levels
Increased T4 levels
The Correct Answer is D
Rationale:
A. Decreased calcium levels: Hypocalcemia may cause neuromuscular symptoms such as tetany or tingling but is not associated with exophthalmos (protruding eyes). Calcium imbalance does not typically cause changes in eye appearance.
B. Decreased somatotropin levels: Somatotropin (growth hormone) deficiency may lead to growth delay or reduced muscle mass, but it is not associated with changes in orbital appearance. Protruding eyes are unrelated to growth hormone levels.
C. Increased glucose levels: Elevated glucose is characteristic of diabetes mellitus and may lead to complications like neuropathy or retinopathy, but it does not cause eye protrusion.
D. Increased T4 levels: Elevated thyroxine (T4) is seen in hyperthyroidism, particularly in Graves' disease, which is strongly associated with exophthalmos. The protrusion results from inflammation and edema of orbital tissues, a hallmark of this thyroid disorder.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Rationale:
A. "I'm concerned because I'm so tired all the time.": Fatigue is a common manifestation of SLE caused by chronic inflammation, anemia, or medication effects. While it impacts daily function, it is not an immediate threat compared to signs of infection, which can become life-threatening quickly in immunosuppressed clients.
B. "I feel like I'm isolated from all my friends now.": Emotional concerns like isolation are important in managing chronic illness, but they are not urgent physical issues. Addressing psychosocial health is necessary, but it does not take precedence over symptoms that may indicate infection or disease flare.
C. "I've had a fever the last couple of days.": Fever is a priority concern in clients with SLE as it may signal an active infection or disease flare. Immunosuppressive therapy increases the risk of severe infections, which can rapidly worsen if not treated promptly, making this the most urgent issue.
D. "I have a lot of questions about this disease.": Education is vital for long-term disease management and patient empowerment. However, it is not an immediate priority when signs of acute illness, such as fever, are present and require prompt clinical attention.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Hypernatremia: While mild hypernatremia can occur in severe dehydration, it is not a defining or consistent feature of type 1 diabetes. Electrolyte imbalances may vary depending on hydration and glucose levels.
B. Decreased serum osmolality: In type 1 diabetes, serum osmolality is typically increased due to hyperglycemia and the osmotic effect of glucose in the bloodstream, which draws water out of cells and into the vascular space. A decrease would be inconsistent with the expected metabolic state.
C. Ketones in the urine: Ketones in the urine are a hallmark of type 1 diabetes, especially when insulin is deficient. Without insulin, the body breaks down fat for energy, producing ketones as a byproduct, which can be detected in the urine during diabetic ketoacidosis.
D. Hypoglycemia: Hypoglycemia is a complication of diabetes management, often resulting from too much insulin or missed meals. It is not a presenting manifestation of newly diagnosed type 1 diabetes, which typically presents with hyperglycemia and related symptoms.
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