The nurse is assessing a client with hyperthyroidism. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect? Select all that apply.
Brittle nails
Cool skin
Nervousness
Hoarseness
Perspiration
Exophthalmos
Correct Answer : C,E,F
A. Brittle nails are more commonly associated with hypothyroidism, not hyperthyroidism. In hyperthyroidism, nails tend to be stronger, although they may grow more quickly.
B. Cool skin is a sign of hypothyroidism, not hyperthyroidism. In hyperthyroidism, the skin is often warm and moist due to increased metabolic activity and the body's increased heat production.
C. Nervousness, anxiety, and irritability are common symptoms of hyperthyroidism due to the overstimulation of the sympathetic nervous system caused by elevated thyroid hormones.
D. Hoarseness is more commonly seen in hypothyroidism or in cases of thyroid nodules or goiter, not typically in hyperthyroidism.
E. Excessive perspiration is common in hyperthyroidism because of the increased metabolic rate and the body's tendency to generate more heat.
F. Exophthalmos (bulging of the eyes) is a hallmark symptom of Graves' disease, which is a common cause of hyperthyroidism. It occurs due to inflammation and swelling of the tissues around the eyes.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Low serum thyroxine (T4) level In hyperthyroidism, the serum thyroxine (T4) level is typically elevated due to excessive production of thyroid hormones.
B. Decreased serum thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) In hyperthyroidism, the body produces excess thyroid hormones (T3 and T4), which negatively feedback to the pituitary gland and result in decreased TSH levels. This is a key diagnostic finding.
C. Tachycardia or fine hand tremor Hyperthyroidism often causes symptoms like tachycardia (increased heart rate) and a fine hand tremor due to the overstimulation of the body's metabolism and sympathetic nervous system.
D. Elevated serum thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) In hyperthyroidism, the TSH level is typically low due to negative feedback from the excess thyroid hormones.
E. Elevated serum thyroxine (T4) In hyperthyroidism, the serum thyroxine (T4) level is elevated because the thyroid gland is producing too much thyroid hormone.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Decreased nervousness might be a result of effective treatment for hyperthyroidism, but it is not the most critical symptom to assess in relation to propylthiouracil (PTU) therapy.
B. Sore throat and increased ecchymosis Propylthiouracil (PTU) can cause serious side effects, including agranulocytosis (a severe decrease in white blood cells), which can result in sore throat, fever, and increased bruising or ecchymosis. These symptoms suggest a possible infection or bleeding disorder and should be promptly assessed and reported to a healthcare provider.
C. Heart rate greater than 60 and less than 100 beats/min PTU is used to treat hyperthyroidism, which can cause an elevated heart rate. A heart rate between 60 and 100 beats per minute is generally within normal limits and does not specifically warrant further assessment in this case.
D. A reduced tremor may be a positive sign of treatment effectiveness, as tremors are common in hyperthyroidism. However, this does not necessitate further assessment related to PTU therapy, unlike more serious side effects such as agranulocytosis.
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