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."
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.
(c) "You could be making healthier food choices.":
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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. To prevent further dehydration:
While preventing dehydration is important, it is not the primary reason for bringing a cup of water when assessing the thyroid gland. Dehydration is addressed through overall fluid management rather than during a specific thyroid exam.
B. To assist the client to feel more comfortable:
Providing comfort is essential, but bringing a cup of water specifically for comfort during a thyroid exam is not typically necessary. The primary focus of the water in this context is related to the assessment process.
C. To observe the movement of the thyroid gland:
Observing the movement of the thyroid gland during swallowing can help the nurse assess for abnormalities. Having the client drink water allows the nurse to observe the thyroid gland's movement, which can indicate the presence of goiters, nodules, or other irregularities.
D. To promote the nurse-client relationship:
Promoting a good nurse-client relationship is always beneficial, but bringing a cup of water for this specific purpose is not relevant to the physical assessment of the thyroid gland. The water's main purpose is to facilitate the physical examination process.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
(a) Diarrhea: Diarrhea is an abnormal gastrointestinal response characterized by frequent, loose, or watery stools. It can be caused by infections, medications, or underlying gastrointestinal disorders. Pallor, or paleness of the skin, typically does not directly lead to diarrhea unless there are specific underlying conditions affecting both circulation and gastrointestinal function.
(b) Diaphoresis: Diaphoresis refers to excessive sweating, which can occur due to sympathetic nervous system activation, fever, or anxiety. While diaphoresis may be associated with conditions causing increased sympathetic activity, it is not directly related to pallor, which indicates reduced blood flow to the skin.
(c) Fainting: Pallor is often a sign of decreased blood flow to the skin, indicating potential hypoperfusion. If severe, this reduced circulation can lead to fainting (syncope) due to inadequate blood supply to the brain. Therefore, after noting pallor, the nurse should be prepared to manage the client for potential fainting episodes by ensuring safety and providing appropriate interventions.
(d) Vomiting: Vomiting is the forceful expulsion of stomach contents through the mouth and can be caused by various factors such as gastrointestinal irritation, infection, or systemic illnesses. Pallor does not directly cause vomiting, although severe systemic conditions affecting circulation could potentially lead to nausea and vomiting as part of a broader clinical picture.
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