Which laboratory values are critical for the nurse to monitor for a client who is experiencing a thyrotoxic crisis?

Glucose and calcium levels.

Electrolytes and hemoglobin.

Renal and liver function tests.

Blood and urine cultures.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is C

A. Glucose may be elevated due to stress, and calcium can be mildly elevated in hyperthyroidism, but these are not the most critical or life-threatening concerns during a thyroid storm.

B. Electrolytes and hemoglobin: While monitoring electrolytes is important, they are not the most critical values in a thyrotoxic crisis. Hemoglobin levels are not directly impacted by thyroid storm and are less likely to provide essential insights for managing this condition.

C. A thyrotoxic crisis (thyroid storm) is a life-threatening complication of severe hyperthyroidism characterized by extreme hypermetabolism, high fever, tachycardia, and possible organ failure. Renal and liver function tests are critical because liver dysfunction is common due to increased metabolic demand and decreased perfusion. Elevated AST, ALT, and bilirubin levels may occur. Renal impairment may result from dehydration, hyperthermia, and decreased cardiac output. Multiorgan failure is a major risk, so monitoring kidney and liver function helps assess severity and guide treatment. Therefore, renal and liver function tests are essential labs to closely monitor.

D. Blood and urine cultures: Blood and urine cultures are used to detect infections, they are not a priority during a thyrotoxic crisis unless there is a concern about infection. The primary focus should be on managing thyroid hormone levels and associated metabolic effects.

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Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A. The woman is timid and speaks softly when asked about the accident: Timid behavior may suggest fear or anxiety, but it's nonspecific and may be due to trauma or emotional distress, not necessarily abuse.

B. Spiral fracture on the woman's arm and wrist: Spiral fractures occur from twisting injuries and are often associated with non-accidental trauma, especially when the injury doesn't match the reported mechanism.

C. The woman is hyperventilating and appears to be in pain: Hyperventilation and visible pain may indicate anxiety or physical injury, but they are expected after trauma and not unique to domestic violence.

D. Fresh bruises on the woman's shoulder and chest: Bruising is a possible sign of abuse, but bruises alone can result from a car accident. The type and location must be assessed in context.

A. If I experience any difficulty with breathing I will report it. B. Drinking grapefruit juice will increase the effects of the medication. C. Monitoring for changes in stool color is important. D. I should take the medication with antacids.

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A. If I experience any difficulty with breathing I will report it: Difficulty breathing is a serious side effect of itraconazole, which can cause respiratory issues such as shortness of breath. The client should report this immediately, making this statement appropriate.

B. Drinking grapefruit juice will increase the effects of the medication: Grapefruit juice increases the effects of many medications, including itraconazole, by inhibiting the enzyme responsible for metabolizing the drug.

C. Monitoring for changes in stool color is important: Itraconazole can cause liver toxicity, and monitoring stool color is important as it can indicate liver issues, such as jaundice. The client’s awareness of this potential side effect is appropriate.

D. I should take the medication with antacids: This statement requires correction because antacids can reduce the absorption of itraconazole. The medication should be taken with an acidic drink like cola, not with antacids, to ensure proper absorption.

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Which laboratory values are critical for the nurse to monitor for a client who is experiencing a thyrotoxic crisis?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A woman and her live-in significant other come in the emergency department following a motor vehicle collision. Which finding should alert the nurse to assess for the possibility of domestic violence?

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

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Correct Answer is D

Explanation

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Which laboratory values are critical for the nurse to monitor for a client who is experiencing a thyrotoxic crisis?