An overweight African-American female client with a diagnosis of hypothyroidism asks the nurse why she has begun to gain body weight. Which is the best explanation the Medical Surgical nurse can provide?

"Your metabolism is slowing down."

"You should be exercising for longer periods of time."

"You could be making healthier food choices."

"You are retaining fluid."

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is A

(a) "Your metabolism is slowing down.":

Hypothyroidism leads to a decrease in the production of thyroid hormones, which are critical in regulating metabolism. With lower levels of these hormones, the body's metabolic rate decreases, resulting in reduced calorie burning and subsequent weight gain. This explanation directly addresses the underlying cause of weight gain in hypothyroidism.

(b) "You should be exercising for longer periods of time.":

While exercise is beneficial for overall health and can help manage weight, it does not directly address the reason for weight gain in hypothyroidism. The primary issue is the slowed metabolism due to thyroid hormone deficiency, not a lack of exercise.

Although diet plays a role in weight management, this response does not explain the root cause of weight gain in hypothyroidism. The condition itself slows metabolism, leading to weight gain even if dietary habits remain unchanged.

(d) "You are retaining fluid.":

Fluid retention can occur in hypothyroidism but is not the primary reason for weight gain in this condition. The main cause is a decreased metabolic rate, which leads to the accumulation of body fat. Fluid retention might contribute to some weight gain, but it is not the best explanation in this context.

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A) At the angle of the mandible:

Lymph nodes located at the angle of the mandible are the submandibular lymph nodes, not the occipital lymph nodes. These nodes are situated below the jawline and are assessed when looking for infections or abnormalities in the oral cavity and throat.

B) Temporal area:

The temporal area is not a typical location for lymph node palpation. This region is primarily related to the temporal artery and muscles, not to lymph nodes. Thus, palpating for lymph nodes here would not be relevant.

C) The posterior base of the skull:

The occipital lymph nodes are located at the posterior base of the skull, near the nape of the neck. These nodes drain the scalp and are assessed when there are scalp infections or other related conditions.

D) Area in front of the ears:

The lymph nodes in front of the ears are the preauricular lymph nodes. These nodes drain the eyes and the surrounding skin. They are not the occipital lymph nodes, which are situated at the back of the head.

A. Inquire about family history of headaches. B. Review the client's medical record. C. Assess the client's blood pressure. D. Provide medication for pain relief.

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

(a) Inquire about family history of headaches:

While understanding the client's family history of headaches can be important for a comprehensive assessment, it is not the immediate priority. The description of "the worst headache" ever experienced could indicate a serious condition that needs urgent attention.

(b) Review the client's medical record:

Reviewing the client's medical record provides valuable information about their history and potential underlying conditions. However, given the severity of the reported headache, it is crucial to perform a more immediate physical assessment to rule out life-threatening conditions.

Assessing the client's blood pressure is a critical initial action. A severe headache can be a symptom of hypertensive crisis, stroke, or other serious conditions. High blood pressure could provide an immediate clue to the severity and cause of the headache, allowing for quicker intervention.

(d) Provide medication for pain relief:

Providing pain relief is important, but it should not be the first action without determining the cause of the headache. Administering medication without assessing the client's condition could mask symptoms of a potentially serious underlying issue such as a stroke or hypertensive emergency.

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An overweight African-American female client with a diagnosis of hypothyroidism asks the nurse why she has begun to gain body weight. Which is the best explanation the Medical Surgical nurse can provide?

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

At which location would a nurse palpate a client's occipital lymph nodes?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

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