Endocrine Systems > Medical Surgical
Exam Review
Thyroid Storm
Total Questions : 50
Showing 50 questions, Sign in for moreThe nurse is providing education to a group of nursing students about thyroid storm. Which statement by a student indicates a correct understanding of thyroid storm?
Explanation
Thyroid storm is an acute, life-threatening condition that occurs as a result of uncontrolled hyperthyroidism. It is characterized by a sudden and dramatic increase in thyroid hormone levels, leading to severe symptoms and potential complications.
The nurse is reviewing the medical history of a client with thyroid storm. Which underlying condition should the nurse recognize as a potential trigger for thyroid storm?
Explanation
Thyroid storm can be triggered by various factors, including uncontrolled hyperthyroidism, infection, trauma, or certain medications. Hypothyroidism is not a trigger for thyroid storm; it is a separate condition characterized by an underactive thyroid gland.
The nurse is assessing a client suspected of experiencing thyroid storm. Which clinical manifestation is commonly associated with thyroid storm?
Explanation
Profuse sweating is a common clinical manifestation of thyroid storm. Other symptoms include tachycardia, hypertension, fever, restlessness, agitation, delirium, and gastrointestinal symptoms.
The nurse is caring for a client diagnosed with thyroid storm. Which intervention should the nurse prioritize in the management of this condition?
Explanation
Providing supplemental oxygen therapy is a priority intervention to ensure adequate oxygenation and support vital organ function in a client with thyroid storm. This condition can cause increased metabolic demand and potential respiratory distress.
The nurse is educating a client about the importance of adhering to medication therapy for thyroid storm. Which statement by the client indicates a correct understanding of the treatment?
Explanation
Adherence to medication therapy is crucial in managing thyroid storm. Medications are used to reduce thyroid hormone production and control symptoms. Stopping medications prematurely can lead to a recurrence of the condition.
Incorrect choices:
a. Stopping medications once symptoms improve is not recommended, as it can lead to a relapse of thyroid storm.
c. Medications should be taken as prescribed, regardless of symptom severity.
d. Skipping doses can disrupt the effectiveness of medication therapy and worsen the client's condition.
The nurse is explaining the pathophysiology of thyroid storm to a client. Which statement accurately describes the underlying process that contributes to thyroid storm?
Explanation
Thyroid storm is a life-threatening condition characterized by a sudden and severe increase in thyroid hormone levels in the bloodstream. This occurs due to the uncontrolled release of thyroid hormones, primarily thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), from the thyroid gland.
The nurse is discussing the physiological effects of thyroid storm with a group of nursing students. Which manifestation is a direct result of the excessive thyroid hormone levels seen in thyroid storm?
Explanation
Excessive thyroid hormone levels in thyroid storm lead to hypermetabolism, which results in increased oxygen consumption, heat production, and energy expenditure. This hypermetabolic state is associated with symptoms such as tachycardia, hypertension, fever, and profuse sweating.
The nurse is explaining the role of the sympathetic nervous system in thyroid storm. Which statement accurately describes the interaction between the sympathetic nervous system and thyroid hormone release in this condition?
Explanation
Thyroid storm is associated with sympathetic nervous system stimulation, leading to increased release of thyroid hormones from the thyroid gland. This results in a cascade of hypermetabolic effects throughout the body.
The nurse is discussing the feedback loop that regulates thyroid hormone production with a client. Which component of the feedback loop is disrupted in thyroid storm?
Explanation
In thyroid storm, the usual negative feedback loop between the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, and thyroid gland is disrupted. The excessive release of thyroid hormones suppresses the secretion of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) from the pituitary gland, leading to uncontrolled thyroid hormone production.
The nurse is educating a client about the triggers for thyroid storm. Which statement accurately describes a common trigger for thyroid storm?
Explanation
Excessive iodine intake, such as from contrast agents used in imaging studies, can trigger thyroid storm in individuals with underlying hyperthyroidism. The additional iodine can stimulate further thyroid hormone release and exacerbate the condition.
Incorrect choices:
a. Prolonged exposure to cold temperatures is not a common trigger for thyroid storm.
c. Parathyroid hormone is not directly involved in thyroid hormone regulation and does not trigger thyroid storm.
d. Bacterial infections are not a common trigger for thyroid storm.
The nurse is assessing a client suspected of experiencing thyroid storm. Which cardiovascular manifestation is commonly associated with thyroid storm?
Explanation
Hypertension is a common cardiovascular manifestation of thyroid storm. The excessive release of thyroid hormones leads to increased cardiac output, resulting in elevated blood pressure.
The nurse is caring for a client diagnosed with thyroid storm. Which ocular manifestation should the nurse closely monitor for in this client?
Explanation
Exophthalmos, or protruding eyeballs, is an ocular manifestation commonly associated with thyroid storm. It is caused by the accumulation of fluid and tissue behind the eyes, often seen in Graves' disease.
The nurse is assessing a client with suspected thyroid storm. Which gastrointestinal manifestation is frequently observed in clients experiencing thyroid storm?
Explanation
Diarrhea is a common gastrointestinal manifestation of thyroid storm. The increased metabolic rate and hyperactivity of the digestive system can lead to frequent bowel movements and loose stools.
The nurse is educating a client about the potential manifestations of thyroid storm. Which neuromuscular manifestation should the nurse include in the teaching?
Explanation
Muscle weakness is a neuromuscular manifestation commonly observed in clients experiencing thyroid storm. It is attributed to the hypermetabolic state and increased breakdown of muscle tissue.
The nurse is assessing a client with suspected thyroid storm. Which respiratory manifestation should the nurse anticipate in this client?
Explanation
Hyperventilation, or rapid and deep breathing, is a respiratory manifestation commonly observed in clients with thyroid storm. The increased metabolic rate and elevated body temperature contribute to respiratory alkalosis and hyperventilation.
Incorrect choices:
a. Bradypnea, or slow breathing, is not a characteristic respiratory manifestation of thyroid storm.
c. Wheezing is not commonly associated with thyroid storm and is more indicative of respiratory conditions such as asthma.
d. Decreased respiratory rate is not a typical manifestation of thyroid storm, as clients often experience rapid breathing due to the hypermetabolic state.
The nurse is caring for a client suspected of having thyroid storm. Which laboratory test is commonly used to assess thyroid function and diagnose thyroid storm?
Explanation
Measuring thyroid hormone levels, specifically triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4), is an essential diagnostic evaluation for thyroid storm. Elevated levels of these hormones indicate excessive thyroid hormone production and are indicative of thyroid storm.
The nurse is reviewing diagnostic tests for a client suspected of experiencing thyroid storm. Which imaging study can provide information about the size and activity of the thyroid gland?
Explanation
A thyroid ultrasound is a diagnostic tool that can assess the size, structure, and activity of the thyroid gland. It provides information about the presence of any thyroid nodules, enlargement, or abnormalities.
The nurse is assessing a client with suspected thyroid storm. Which diagnostic test is used to evaluate the presence of thyroid autoantibodies and diagnose autoimmune thyroid conditions?
Explanation
The thyroid peroxidase antibody (TPOAb) test is used to detect the presence of antibodies against thyroid peroxidase, an enzyme involved in thyroid hormone production. Elevated TPOAb levels indicate autoimmune thyroid conditions, which can contribute to thyroid storm.
The nurse is caring for a client with suspected thyroid storm. Which diagnostic test is used to visualize the structure and function of the thyroid gland, as well as assess for the presence of thyroid nodules or tumors?
Explanation
A thyroid ultrasound is a non-invasive imaging test that provides detailed images of the thyroid gland. It can help visualize the gland's structure, identify nodules or tumors, and assess for abnormalities.
The nurse is educating a client about diagnostic evaluations for thyroid storm. Which diagnostic test involves administering a radioactive tracer and measuring its uptake by the thyroid gland?
Explanation
The radioactive iodine uptake test involves administering a small amount of radioactive iodine and measuring its uptake by the thyroid gland. This test assesses the thyroid's ability to take up iodine and produce thyroid hormones.
Incorrect choices:
a. Thyroid ultrasound is used to visualize the thyroid gland's structure and function but does not involve the use of radioactive tracers.
c. Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) level is a blood test that measures the pituitary gland's response to thyroid hormone levels.
d. Thyroid peroxidase antibody (TPOAb) test detects the presence of thyroid autoantibodies and is used to diagnose autoimmune thyroid conditions.
The nurse is caring for a client diagnosed with thyroid storm. Which medication is commonly used to block the synthesis of thyroid hormones and manage thyroid storm?
Explanation
Methimazole is an antithyroid medication that inhibits the synthesis of thyroid hormones by blocking the enzyme thyroid peroxidase. It is often used as part of the medical management of thyroid storm to decrease excessive thyroid hormone production.
The nurse is administering medications to a client with thyroid storm. Which medication should the nurse administer to reduce heart rate and alleviate symptoms of hyperthyroidism?
Explanation
Propranolol is a beta-blocker that helps reduce heart rate and manage symptoms such as palpitations, tremors, and anxiety associated with thyroid storm.
The nurse is caring for a client with thyroid storm. Which medication is administered to inhibit the release of thyroid hormones and manage thyroid storm?
Explanation
Propylthiouracil (PTU) is an antithyroid medication that blocks the synthesis of thyroid hormones and inhibits the conversion of thyroxine (T4) to triiodothyronine (T3). It is used to manage thyroid storm and decrease thyroid hormone levels.
The nurse is caring for a client with thyroid storm. Which medication should the nurse administer to restore normal heart rhythm and manage cardiac manifestations?
Explanation
Potassium iodide is administered to block the release of thyroid hormones and manage thyroid storm. It helps restore normal heart rhythm and reduce cardiac manifestations.
The nurse is educating a client about medications used in the management of thyroid storm. Which medication should the nurse explain is used to temporarily reduce thyroid hormone release and manage severe hyperthyroidism?
Explanation
Sodium polystyrene sulfonate (Kayexalate) is used to bind excess thyroid hormones and temporarily reduce their release. It is part of the medical management of thyroid storm to manage severe hyperthyroidism.
Incorrect choices:
a. Levothyroxine (Synthroid) is a thyroid hormone replacement medication used to treat hypothyroidism and would exacerbate thyroid storm if given.
b. Methimazole (Tapazole) is an antithyroid medication that inhibits thyroid hormone synthesis and is used to manage thyroid storm, but it does not temporarily reduce thyroid hormone release.
c. Propranolol (Inderal) is a beta-blocker used to manage symptoms of hyperthyroidism but does not directly reduce thyroid hormone release.
The nurse is caring for a client with thyroid storm. Which medication is the most appropriate for the management of thyroid storm?
Explanation
Methimazole is an antithyroid medication that inhibits the production of thyroid hormones and is commonly used in the management of thyroid storm to reduce thyroid hormone levels.
Incorrect choices:
a. Levothyroxine (Synthroid) is a thyroid hormone replacement medication and is contraindicated in the treatment of thyroid storm, as it would worsen the hyperthyroid state.
c. Propranolol (Inderal) is a beta-blocker that can help control symptoms such as tachycardia and hypertension in thyroid storm, but it does not address the underlying thyroid hormone excess.
d. Liothyronine (Cytomel) is a thyroid hormone replacement medication and is contraindicated in the treatment of thyroid storm, as it would worsen the hyperthyroid state.
The nurse is caring for a client with thyroid storm. In addition to antithyroid medications, which medication should the nurse anticipate administering to alleviate symptoms of increased heart rate and anxiety?
Explanation
Propranolol is a beta-blocker that can help control symptoms such as tachycardia and anxiety by blocking the effects of excess thyroid hormones on the heart.
Incorrect choices:
a. Furosemide (Lasix) is a diuretic and is not indicated for the management of symptoms in thyroid storm.
b. Atropine is not typically used to manage symptoms in thyroid storm, and it may increase heart rate.
d. Digoxin (Lanoxin) is used to treat heart failure and is not typically used to manage symptoms in thyroid storm.
The nurse is caring for a client with thyroid storm. Which electrolyte imbalance is commonly associated with thyroid storm and requires monitoring and correction?
Explanation
Thyroid storm can lead to increased metabolism and utilization of electrolytes, including potassium. Hypokalemia may develop and requires monitoring and correction.
Incorrect choices:
a. Hyperkalemia is not commonly associated with thyroid storm and is less likely to occur.
c. Hypercalcemia is not a typical electrolyte imbalance in thyroid storm.
d. Hypocalcemia is not a typical electrolyte imbalance in thyroid storm.
The nurse is caring for a client with thyroid storm. Which intervention is important in maintaining a safe and quiet environment for the client?
Explanation
Minimizing external stimuli and noise helps reduce stress and anxiety for the client with thyroid storm and promotes a calm and safe environment.
Incorrect choices:
a. Administering sedatives may be necessary, but it is not the primary intervention to maintain a safe environment.
b. Providing a dark and dimly lit room is not necessary and may contribute to feelings of isolation.
c. Encouraging social interaction may not be appropriate for a client experiencing symptoms of thyroid storm, as rest and reduced stimuli are important.
The nurse is providing care for a client with thyroid storm. Which vital sign is crucial for the nurse to monitor frequently to assess the client's response to treatment?
Explanation
Body temperature is a crucial indicator of thyroid storm severity and response to treatment. Monitoring body temperature helps assess the effectiveness of interventions in reducing hyperthermia.
Incorrect choices:
a. Blood pressure is important to monitor, but body temperature provides more direct information about the client's metabolic state.
b. Respiratory rate and oxygen saturation are important indicators of respiratory status but may not directly reflect thyroid storm severity.
d. Oxygen saturation is important for assessing respiratory status but may not directly reflect thyroid storm severity or treatment response.
The nurse is caring for a client with thyroid storm. Which intervention should the nurse prioritize in the management of this condition?
Explanation
Administering antithyroid medications, such as propylthiouracil (PTU) or methimazole, is a priority in managing thyroid storm. These medications inhibit the production of thyroid hormones and help control the hyperthyroid state.
Incorrect choices:
b. Initiating high-dose thyroid hormone replacement therapy is not appropriate for thyroid storm, as the goal is to reduce thyroid hormone levels, not increase them.
c. While intravenous fluid resuscitation may be necessary to manage dehydration and electrolyte imbalances associated with thyroid storm, it is not the initial priority intervention.
d. Encouraging physical activity is contraindicated in thyroid storm, as it can exacerbate symptoms and increase the risk of complications.
The nurse is providing care for a client with thyroid storm. Which nursing intervention is essential to prevent complications in this client?
Explanation
Thyroid storm can suppress the immune system, making the client more susceptible to infections. Monitoring for signs of infection, such as fever, increased white blood cell count, and localized redness, helps prevent and promptly address complications.
Incorrect choices:
a. Administering supplemental iodine is not indicated in thyroid storm management and could worsen the condition.
c. While adequate nutrition is important, encouraging a high-calorie, high-protein diet is not a priority intervention in thyroid storm.
d. Administering intravenous potassium supplements is not a standard intervention for thyroid storm. Electrolyte imbalances may occur, but potassium replacement should be based on laboratory values.
The nurse is providing care to a client with thyroid storm. Which intervention should the nurse implement to promote a safe environment for the client?
Explanation
Thyroid storm can lead to increased metabolism and utilization of glucose, potentially causing hypoglycemia. Monitoring blood glucose levels and assessing for signs of hypoglycemia is important to prevent complications.
Incorrect choices:
a. Keeping the room warm is not necessary and may exacerbate the client's hypermetabolic state. A comfortable room temperature is sufficient.
c. Strenuous physical activity is contraindicated in thyroid storm and can worsen symptoms. Rest is recommended.
d. Administering sedatives can mask the client's true condition and may not be appropriate for a client in thyroid storm.
The nurse is caring for a client with thyroid storm. Which intervention is essential to manage hyperthermia in this client?
Explanation
Applying cold packs to the client's skin helps lower body temperature and manage hyperthermia associated with thyroid storm.
Incorrect choices:
a. Administering acetaminophen (Tylenol) alone may not effectively manage hyperthermia in thyroid storm. Cooling measures, such as cold packs, are more appropriate.
c. Administering antihistamines is not a standard intervention for managing hyperthermia in thyroid storm.
d. Encouraging warm baths is contraindicated in thyroid storm, as it can exacerbate hyperthermia. Cold measures are preferred.
The nurse is providing care for a client with thyroid storm. Which intervention is important to address fluid and electrolyte imbalances in this client?
Explanation
Monitoring intake and output is important to assess fluid balance and prevent dehydration or fluid overload, which can occur in thyroid storm.
Incorrect choices:
a. Administering diuretics is not typically indicated in thyroid storm management and may exacerbate fluid and electrolyte imbalances.
c. Restricting fluid intake is not appropriate in thyroid storm, as clients may require intravenous fluids to maintain hydration.
d. Encouraging high-sodium foods is not a priority intervention in thyroid storm and may exacerbate fluid and electrolyte imbalances.
The nurse is providing education to a client with a history of hyperthyroidism about preventing thyroid storm. Which statement by the client indicates a need for further education?
Explanation
Regular follow-up appointments are essential for monitoring thyroid function and adjusting medication doses if necessary. Skipping appointments even when feeling well can lead to inadequate management and potential risk of thyroid storm.
Incorrect choices:
a. This choice is correct. Taking antithyroid medication as prescribed helps to regulate thyroid hormone levels and prevent hyperthyroidism, reducing the risk of thyroid storm.
b. This choice is correct. Stress management and relaxation techniques can help prevent exacerbation of hyperthyroidism and decrease the risk of thyroid storm.
d. This choice is correct. Notifying the healthcare provider about palpitations or rapid heartbeat is important to address potential worsening of hyperthyroidism and prevent thyroid storm.
The nurse is discussing strategies to prevent thyroid storm with a client who recently underwent radioactive iodine therapy for hyperthyroidism. Which statement by the client indicates understanding of the teaching?
Explanation
After radioactive iodine therapy, it may take several weeks for thyroid hormone levels to normalize. Continuing antithyroid medication during this period helps prevent exacerbation of hyperthyroidism and potential thyroid storm.
Incorrect choices:
a. This choice is incorrect. While avoiding excessive iodine intake is important, avoiding all foods high in iodine is unnecessary and could lead to nutritional deficiencies.
b. This choice is incorrect. Strenuous physical activity can exacerbate hyperthyroidism and increase the risk of thyroid storm. Moderation in physical activity is recommended.
c. This choice is incorrect. Stopping antithyroid medication after radioactive iodine therapy is not recommended, as thyroid hormone levels may not immediately normalize.
The nurse is teaching a client with hyperthyroidism about measures to prevent thyroid storm. Which statement by the client indicates a need for further education?
Explanation
Consuming foods rich in iodine can exacerbate hyperthyroidism and increase the risk of thyroid storm. Iodine is a component of thyroid hormones, and excess intake can worsen thyroid hormone production.
Incorrect choices:
a. This choice is correct. Over-the-counter medications containing pseudoephedrine can stimulate the sympathetic nervous system and exacerbate hyperthyroidism, leading to thyroid storm.
b. This choice is correct. Staying cool in hot weather helps prevent excessive heat stress on the body and minimizes sympathetic nervous system activity that can exacerbate hyperthyroidism.
d. This choice is correct. Reporting signs of infection or illness is important to ensure timely medical attention and prevent potential exacerbation of hyperthyroidism or thyroid storm.
The nurse is providing discharge instructions to a client who experienced thyroid storm and has been stabilized. Which statement by the client indicates a need for further education?
Explanation
Increasing intake of iodized salt can exacerbate hyperthyroidism and increase the risk of thyroid storm. Clients with hyperthyroidism are often advised to reduce iodine intake.
Incorrect choices:
a. This choice is correct. Continuing to take beta-blocker medication helps control heart rate and sympathetic nervous system effects, reducing the risk of thyroid storm.
b. This choice is correct. Exposure to extreme cold temperatures can trigger sympathetic nervous system activity and worsen hyperthyroidism or thyroid storm.
c. This choice is correct. Regular follow-up appointments with the healthcare provider are important to monitor thyroid function and adjust treatment as needed to prevent recurrence of thyroid storm.
The nurse is caring for a client who is newly diagnosed with hyperthyroidism. Which action by the client indicates effective prevention of thyroid storm?
Explanation
Consistently taking antithyroid medications helps regulate thyroid hormone levels and prevent exacerbation of hyperthyroidism, reducing the risk of thyroid storm.
Incorrect choices:
a. This choice is correct. High-intensity interval training can exacerbate hyperthyroidism and increase the risk of thyroid storm. Moderate exercise is recommended.
c. This choice is correct. Consuming large amounts of caffeine can stimulate the sympathetic nervous system and worsen hyperthyroidism, leading to thyroid storm.
d. This choice is correct. While seafood is a source of iodine, consuming excessive amounts can exacerbate hyperthyroidism and increase the risk of thyroid storm. Moderate iodine intake is recommended.
The nurse is caring for a client who is experiencing a thyroid storm. Which assessment finding would the nurse expect to observe?
Explanation
Thyroid storm is a life-threatening condition characterized by severe hyperthyroidism. Hypertension is a common manifestation of thyroid storm, along with tachycardia, fever, and other signs of sympathetic nervous system overactivity.
Incorrect choices:
a. This choice is incorrect. Bradycardia is not a typical finding in thyroid storm. Tachycardia is more common due to increased sympathetic activity.
b. This choice is incorrect. Thyroid storm is associated with hyperthermia, not hypothermia.
d. This choice is incorrect. Weight loss, rather than weight gain, is a characteristic feature of hyperthyroidism, including thyroid storm.
The nurse is assessing a client suspected of having thyroid storm. Which finding would be of immediate concern and require prompt intervention?
Explanation
Restlessness and agitation are signs of increased sympathetic nervous system activity and can indicate the severity of thyroid storm. Prompt intervention is required to prevent further deterioration.
Incorrect choices:
a. This choice is incorrect. Diarrhea can be a symptom of thyroid storm, but it is not an immediate concern that requires urgent intervention.
c. This choice is incorrect. Increased appetite is not a characteristic feature of thyroid storm. In fact, clients with thyroid storm often have decreased appetite due to the severity of their condition.
d. This choice is incorrect. Muscle weakness is a symptom of hyperthyroidism but is not an immediate concern that requires urgent intervention.
The nurse is caring for a client with thyroid storm. Which medication would the nurse anticipate being administered as a priority?
Explanation
Propranolol is a beta-blocker that helps manage the cardiovascular symptoms of thyroid storm, such as tachycardia and hypertension. It is often administered as a priority to stabilize the client's condition.
Incorrect choices:
a. This choice is incorrect. Levothyroxine is a thyroid hormone replacement medication and would not be administered as a priority in the acute management of thyroid storm.
b. This choice is incorrect. Methimazole is an antithyroid medication used to block thyroid hormone production. It is important for long-term management but may not be administered as a priority during a thyroid storm crisis.
d. This choice is incorrect. Calcium gluconate may be administered to address the potential risk of hypocalcemia associated with thyroid storm, but it is not typically administered as a first-line priority medication.
The nurse is providing education to a client with a history of hyperthyroidism about the importance of managing stress. Which rationale should the nurse provide to the client?
Explanation
Stress is a known trigger for thyroid storm in individuals with a history of hyperthyroidism. Effective stress management can help reduce the risk of thyroid storm episodes.
Incorrect choices:
b. This choice is incorrect. Stress reduction is important to prevent exacerbation of hyperthyroidism and the risk of thyroid storm, not to increase thyroid hormone production.
c. This choice is incorrect. Stress management primarily aims to prevent thyroid storm and manage hyperthyroidism, not hypothyroidism.
d. This choice is incorrect. Stress reduction helps manage hyperthyroidism and prevent thyroid storm but does not necessarily "normalize" thyroid hormone levels.
The nurse is assessing a client with thyroid storm. Which finding would be consistent with the increased metabolic rate associated with this condition?
Explanation
Thyroid storm is characterized by an increased metabolic rate, leading to hyperglycemia. The increased metabolic demand and stress response can result in elevated blood glucose levels.
Incorrect choices:
a. This choice is incorrect. Thyroid storm is associated with hypertension, not hypotension.
b. This choice is incorrect. Thyroid storm is associated with tachycardia, not bradycardia.
c. This choice is incorrect. Thyroid storm is associated with hyperthermia, not hypothermia.
The nurse is caring for a client who is experiencing a thyroid storm. Which assessment finding would the nurse prioritize as an early sign of thyroid storm?
Explanation
Tremors, restlessness, and anxiety are early signs of thyroid storm. Thyroid storm is a life-threatening condition characterized by an excessive release of thyroid hormones, leading to hypermetabolic state.
Incorrect choices:
a. This choice is incorrect. Bradycardia is not typically associated with thyroid storm. Tachycardia is more common due to increased sympathetic activity.
b. This choice is incorrect. Thyroid storm is associated with hyperthermia, not hypothermia. Increased metabolic rate leads to elevated body temperature.
d. This choice is incorrect. Decreased appetite is not a priority assessment finding in thyroid storm. More significant symptoms such as agitation and tachycardia take precedence.
The nurse is preparing a plan of care for a client with thyroid storm. Which nursing intervention would be the highest priority?
Explanation
Administering beta-blockers is a priority intervention in thyroid storm to reduce heart rate and control sympathetic nervous system effects. Thyroid storm is characterized by severe tachycardia and increased sympathetic activity.
Incorrect choices:
a. This choice is incorrect. Administering thyroid replacement hormones is not a priority intervention in the acute management of thyroid storm.
b. This choice is incorrect. While fever may occur in thyroid storm, addressing tachycardia and sympathetic overactivity is of higher priority.
c. This choice is incorrect. Monitoring blood glucose levels is important, but addressing the severe tachycardia and other immediate symptoms takes precedence.
The nurse is educating a client with hyperthyroidism about thyroid storm. Which statement by the client indicates a need for further education?
Explanation
Diarrhea, not constipation, is a common gastrointestinal symptom associated with thyroid storm. Increased metabolic rate in thyroid storm can lead to diarrhea.
Incorrect choices:
a. This choice is correct. Taking antithyroid medications as prescribed is important to control thyroid hormone levels and prevent thyroid storm.
b. This choice is correct. Avoiding stress and practicing relaxation techniques can help manage sympathetic overactivity and prevent exacerbation of thyroid storm.
c. This choice is correct. Monitoring heart rate and reporting irregularities is essential for early detection of worsening symptoms in thyroid storm.
The nurse is assessing a client with suspected thyroid storm. Which finding would the nurse anticipate during the assessment?
Explanation
Exophthalmos (protruding eyeballs) is a characteristic finding in thyroid storm due to increased sympathetic activity and inflammation of the orbital tissues.
Incorrect choices:
a. This choice is incorrect. Thyroid storm is characterized by tachycardia, not bradycardia.
b. This choice is incorrect. Thyroid storm is associated with hyperthermia, not hypothermia.
c. This choice is incorrect. Low blood pressure is not a typical finding in thyroid storm. Hypertension and tachycardia are more common.
The nurse is caring for a client with thyroid storm. Which laboratory finding would the nurse anticipate in this condition?
Explanation
Thyroid storm is characterized by significantly elevated levels of T3 and T4, the thyroid hormones.
Incorrect choices:
a. This choice is incorrect. Elevated TSH levels are not expected in thyroid storm. TSH would be suppressed due to high thyroid hormone levels.
c. This choice is incorrect. Low T3 and T4 levels are not indicative of thyroid storm. Thyroid storm is associated with excess thyroid hormone release.
d. This choice is incorrect. Normal TSH levels would not be seen in thyroid storm, as TSH would be suppressed due to elevated thyroid hormone levels.
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