A nurse is caring for a client who reports increased anxiety, nervousness, heat intolerance, and unintentional weight loss. Blood testing reveals decreased thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), elevated thyroxine (T4), and elevated triiodothyronine (T3). Which of the following vital sign abnormalities does the nurse anticipate?

Choice A reason: Exercise

Exercise is a crucial component in the management of peripheral venous disease (PVD). Regular physical activity helps improve blood circulation and reduces symptoms such as pain and swelling. Walking, in particular, is highly recommended as it promotes venous return and enhances overall cardiovascular health. Exercise also helps in weight management, which can alleviate the pressure on the veins and improve symptoms of PVD.

Choice B reason: Elevation of Legs

Elevating the legs is a simple yet effective way to reduce swelling and improve blood flow in patients with PVD1. By raising the legs above the level of the heart, gravity helps to reduce the pooling of blood in the lower extremities, thereby decreasing edema and discomfort. This practice is especially beneficial when done regularly, such as during rest periods or while sleeping.

Choice C reason: Intermittent Pneumatic Compression Pumps

Intermittent pneumatic compression (IPC) pumps are devices used to enhance blood flow in the legs. These devices consist of inflatable sleeves that wrap around the legs and periodically inflate and deflate, mimicking the natural muscle contractions that help push blood back toward the heart. IPC pumps are particularly useful for patients who are immobile or have difficulty engaging in physical activity, as they help prevent blood clots and reduce swelling.

Choice D reason: Ankle-Brachial Index Test

The ankle-brachial index (ABI) test is a diagnostic tool used to assess the severity of peripheral artery disease (PAD), not peripheral venous disease. The test compares the blood pressure in the ankle with the blood pressure in the arm to determine the presence of arterial blockages. While the ABI test is important for diagnosing PAD, it is not a treatment or management strategy for PVD. Therefore, it is not included in the plan of care for PVD.

Choice E reason: Layered Wraps

Layered wraps, also known as compression bandages, are used to manage symptoms of PVD by providing consistent pressure to the legs. These wraps help reduce swelling, improve venous return, and prevent the formation of ulcers. Compression therapy is a cornerstone in the management of chronic venous insufficiency and related conditions, making layered wraps an essential part of the care plan for patients with PVD.

Choice A reason: Acetone Breath

Acetone breath is typically associated with diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), not hyperosmolar hyperglycemic syndrome (HHS). In DKA, the body produces high levels of ketones, leading to a fruity or acetone-like breath odor. HHS, on the other hand, does not usually involve significant ketone production, so acetone breath is not a characteristic feature of HHS.

Choice B reason: Fever

Fever can be a clinical manifestation of HHS, often indicating an underlying infection, which is a common precipitating factor for HHS. Infections can exacerbate hyperglycemia and contribute to the development of HHS, making fever a relevant symptom to consider.

Choice C reason: 68 Years of Age

While age itself is not a clinical manifestation, HHS predominantly affects older adults, particularly those with type 2 diabetes. Therefore, being 68 years old is consistent with the typical demographic affected by HHS, but it is not a direct clinical manifestation.

Choice D reason: Serum Glucose 800 mg/dL

A serum glucose level of 800 mg/dL is significantly elevated and is a hallmark of HHS2. Normal serum glucose levels range from 74 to 106 mg/dL. Such high levels of glucose are indicative of severe hyperglycemia, which is a defining characteristic of HHS.

Choice E reason: Serum Bicarbonate 15 mEq/L

A serum bicarbonate level of 15 mEq/L is below the normal range of 21 to 28 mEq/L. This indicates metabolic acidosis, which can occur in HHS due to severe dehydration and impaired renal function. Although metabolic acidosis is more pronounced in DKA, it can still be present in HHS.

Choice F reason: Insidious Onset

HHS typically has an insidious onset, developing slowly over days to weeks. This gradual progression contrasts with the rapid onset of DKA and is a key feature in the clinical presentation of HHS.