A client with hypothyroidism is at risk for which of the following complications?
- A. Thyroid storm
- B. Myxedema coma
- C. Cushing's syndrome
- D. Diabetic ketoacidosis
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Myxedema coma is a severe, life-threatening complication that can occur in individuals with untreated or inadequately treated hypothyroidism. It is characterized by extreme hypothyroidism leading to decreased mental status, hypothermia, bradycardia, and respiratory depression. Thyroid storm (Choice A) is a severe complication of hyperthyroidism, not hypothyroidism. Cushing's syndrome (Choice C) results from prolonged exposure to high levels of cortisol, not related to hypothyroidism. Diabetic ketoacidosis (Choice D) is a complication of uncontrolled diabetes, not directly associated with hypothyroidism.
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The client with hypothyroidism is being educated by the healthcare provider about taking levothyroxine. Which of the following instructions should be included?
- A. Take the medication with meals
- B. Take the medication at bedtime
- C. Take the medication on an empty stomach in the morning
- D. Take the medication with a glass of milk
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is to take levothyroxine on an empty stomach in the morning. This instruction is essential to enhance absorption and efficacy of the medication. Taking levothyroxine with meals, at bedtime, or with a glass of milk can interfere with its absorption and effectiveness, leading to suboptimal treatment outcomes.
The client with type 2 DM is learning to manage blood glucose levels. When should the client monitor blood glucose?
- A. Only when feeling unwell.
- B. Only before meals.
- C. Before meals and at bedtime.
- D. Only after meals.
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is to monitor blood glucose before meals and at bedtime. This timing allows the client to assess fasting levels and make informed decisions about mealtime insulin or medication doses. Monitoring only when feeling unwell (choice A) is not sufficient for proper glucose management as it may miss important trends. Monitoring only before meals (choice B) is helpful but does not provide a complete picture of the client's glucose control throughout the day. Monitoring only after meals (choice D) is less beneficial than monitoring before meals as it does not capture fasting levels. Therefore, monitoring before meals and at bedtime (choice C) is the most comprehensive approach to maintain good glucose control and prevent complications.
During a physical assessment of a client with type 2 DM, a nurse notes the following findings: fasting blood glucose of 120 mg/dl, temperature of 101°F, pulse 88 bpm, respirations 22/min, and BP 140/84 mmHg. Which finding should concern the nurse the most?
- A. Pulse
- B. BP
- C. Respiration
- D. Temperature
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is 'Temperature.' A temperature of 101°F indicates a fever, which can be a sign of infection. In individuals with diabetes, infections can lead to significant complications and affect blood glucose control. Monitoring and addressing infections promptly are crucial in individuals with diabetes to prevent worsening of their condition.
Choice A, 'Pulse,' is within the normal range (60-100 bpm) and does not indicate an immediate concern. Choice B, 'BP,' while slightly elevated, is not as acutely concerning as an elevated temperature in this scenario. Choice C, 'Respiration,' falls within the normal range (12-20 breaths/min) and is not the most concerning finding among the options provided.
A client with diabetes insipidus is being treated with desmopressin. The nurse should monitor for which of the following side effects?
- A. Hyponatremia
- B. Hypernatremia
- C. Hypokalemia
- D. Hypercalcemia
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Hyponatremia. Desmopressin, a medication used in diabetes insipidus, can cause water retention by increasing water reabsorption in the kidneys. This excess water retention can lead to dilutional hyponatremia, where sodium levels in the body become too low. Monitoring for hyponatremia is crucial to prevent complications such as neurological symptoms. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because desmopressin is not known to cause hypernatremia, hypokalemia, or hypercalcemia.
A client with type 2 diabetes mellitus is being discharged after receiving initial treatment. What should the nurse emphasize as a crucial instruction?
- A. Take insulin as prescribed, even if you are not eating.
- B. Avoid all forms of physical exercise to prevent hypoglycemia.
- C. Monitor blood glucose levels regularly and report any changes.
- D. Stop taking oral antidiabetic medication if your blood glucose levels are normal.
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Monitoring blood glucose levels regularly is a critical aspect of managing type 2 diabetes mellitus. This allows the individual to track their blood sugar levels, understand the effectiveness of the treatment plan, and detect any fluctuations promptly. Option A is incorrect because insulin should be taken based on a prescribed schedule that correlates with meals to prevent hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia. Option B is incorrect as physical exercise is beneficial for managing diabetes but should be done cautiously with adjustments in insulin or food intake. Option D is incorrect because discontinuing oral antidiabetic medications without healthcare provider guidance can lead to uncontrolled blood glucose levels.