Which symptom will the nurse anticipate in a patient diagnosed with supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) with a non-sustained ventricular response?

Choice A Reason:

A decreased thyroxine (T4) level is not expected in a client with Graves’ disease. Graves’ disease is an autoimmune disorder that leads to hyperthyroidism, where the thyroid gland produces excessive amounts of thyroid hormones, including T4. Therefore, the T4 level is typically elevated, not decreased.

Choice B Reason:

Similarly, a decreased triiodothyronine (T3) level is not expected in Graves’ disease. Like T4, T3 levels are usually elevated due to the overactive thyroid gland. T3 is the active form of thyroid hormone and is often increased in hyperthyroid conditions.

Choice C Reason:

Decreased thyroid-stimulating immunoglobulins (TSI) percentage is incorrect. In Graves’ disease, TSI levels are elevated because these antibodies stimulate the thyroid gland to produce more thyroid hormones. TSI mimics the action of TSH, leading to increased production of T3 and T4.

Choice D Reason:

Decreased thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) level is the correct answer. In Graves’ disease, the excessive thyroid hormones (T3 and T4) exert negative feedback on the pituitary gland, leading to suppressed TSH production. Therefore, TSH levels are typically low in patients with Graves’ disease.

Choice A Reason:

Weigh the client daily: While monitoring weight is important for clients with Addison’s disease, it is not the primary action to prevent an Addisonian crisis. Daily weight monitoring helps track fluid balance and detect any sudden changes that might indicate complications, but it does not directly address the hormonal imbalance that characterizes Addisonian crisis.

Choice B Reason:

Restrict food intake: Restricting food intake is not recommended for clients with Addison’s disease. Proper nutrition is crucial for maintaining energy levels and overall health. Clients with Addison’s disease need a balanced diet to manage their condition effectively. Restricting food intake could lead to malnutrition and exacerbate symptoms.

Choice C Reason:

Administer oral corticosteroids: This is the correct action. Addison’s disease is characterized by insufficient production of cortisol and aldosterone by the adrenal glands. Administering oral corticosteroids helps replace the deficient hormones and manage the symptoms of Addison’s disease. During an Addisonian crisis, immediate administration of corticosteroids is critical to prevent severe complications such as shock, coma, or even death.

Choice D Reason:

Provide a low carbohydrate diet: A low carbohydrate diet is not specifically recommended for clients with Addison’s disease. Instead, a balanced diet that includes adequate carbohydrates, proteins, and fats is essential. Carbohydrates are important for maintaining energy levels, especially since clients with Addison’s disease may experience fatigue and weakness. Restricting carbohydrates could lead to low blood sugar levels, which can be dangerous for these clients.