NCLEX Medical-Surgical: Endocrine Disorders 3

Question 1

A client with hypothyroidism (myxedema) is at risk for myxedema coma. Which finding is most concerning?

Accepted Answer

Hypothermia, hypotension, and decreased level of consciousness

Answer

Myxedema coma is marked by hypothermia, hypotension, hypoventilation, and decreased consciousness, requiring emergency care.

Question 2

Which symptom would the nurse expect in a client with hyperthyroidism (Graves' disease)?

Accepted Answer

Weight loss, heat intolerance, and tachycardia

Answer

Excess thyroid hormone speeds metabolism, producing weight loss, heat intolerance, and tachycardia.

Question 3

A client is taking levothyroxine for hypothyroidism. Which instruction is correct?

Accepted Answer

Take it in the morning on an empty stomach

Answer

Levothyroxine is best absorbed when taken in the morning on an empty stomach, and it is a lifelong replacement therapy.

Question 4

Thyroid storm is suspected in a postoperative thyroidectomy client. Which finding supports this?

Accepted Answer

Temperature 104°F (40°C), tachycardia, and agitation

Answer

Thyroid storm is a life-threatening surge of thyroid hormone causing high fever, severe tachycardia, and agitation.

Question 5

After a thyroidectomy, the nurse should keep which equipment at the bedside?

Accepted Answer

Tracheostomy tray and oxygen

Answer

Postoperative swelling or bleeding can compress the airway, so a tracheostomy tray and oxygen must be readily available.

NCLEX Practice Test