Which risk factor for traumatic brain injury (TBI) should a nurse include in a discussion about prevention for a group of adolescents?

Choice a reason:
Hypothyroidism is a condition where the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormones. This can lead to a variety of symptoms, including hoarseness, fatigue, and weight gain. The hoarseness can be due to the effect of hormone deficiency on the vocal cords, while fatigue and weight gain are common due to the slowed metabolism associated with hypothyroidism.

Choice b reason:
Gingivitis is inflammation of the gums and does not typically cause hoarseness, fatigue, or weight gain. It is more commonly associated with symptoms like red, swollen gums and bleeding during brushing or flossing.

Choice c reason:
Aphthous ulcers, also known as canker sores, are small, shallow lesions that develop on the soft tissues in the mouth or at the base of the gums. While they can be painful and cause difficulty with eating and speaking, they do not cause systemic symptoms such as hoarseness, fatigue, or weight gain.

Choice d reason:
Dysphagia, or difficulty swallowing, can lead to hoarseness if there is an associated throat disorder. However, it is not typically associated with systemic symptoms like fatigue and weight gain unless it is part of a broader condition that affects the body's metabolism or energy levels.

Choice A Reason:
Rhinitis medicamentosa, also known as rebound congestion, is a condition of nasal congestion without other cold or allergy symptoms, typically caused by the overuse of nasal decongestant sprays. It does not usually present with chronic headaches or tenderness over the sinuses, which are more indicative of sinusitis.

Choice B Reason:
Acute bacterial sinusitis is likely the correct diagnosis in this scenario. It often follows a viral upper respiratory infection and presents with symptoms such as thick, discolored nasal mucus, decreased sense of smell, and facial pain or tenderness over the affected sinuses. The chronic headache and noted tenderness upon palpation over the sinuses in the client are consistent with this condition.

Choice C Reason:
Epistaxis, or nosebleed, is bleeding from the nose that can be caused by various factors, including trauma, medication, or environmental conditions. While it can be a symptom of other nasal conditions, it is not typically associated with chronic headaches or sinus tenderness following an upper respiratory infection.

Choice D Reason:
Allergic rhinitis is an allergic reaction to allergens such as pollen, dust, or pet dander, causing symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, and sometimes headaches. However, the chronic headache and sinus tenderness described by the client after an infection are more suggestive of sinusitis rather than allergic rhinitis.