Question

Which action by the nurse indicates that he is aware of the needs of the client with myxedema? A. The nurse provides the client with a private room. B. The nurse offers extra, warm blankets. C. The nurse orders high-calorie foods for the client. D. The nurse administers antihypertensive medications.

Short answer

A) Provide the client with a private room B) Offer extra, warm blankets C) Order high-calorie foods for the client D) Administer antihypertensive medications Answer: B) Offer extra, warm blankets

Step-by-step solution

Analyzing Option A

Analyzing the nurse providing the client with a private room. This might be a supportive action for any patient, but it does not specifically address the needs of a client with myxedema.

Analyzing Option B

Analyzing the nurse offering extra, warm blankets. Since clients with myxedema suffer from dry skin and sensitivity to cold, providing extra, warm blankets is targeting one of the most common symptoms of the condition.

Analyzing Option C

Analyzing the nurse ordering high-calorie foods for the client. Although clients with myxedema may experience fatigue and a slowdown of their metabolism, high-calorie foods are not necessarily the most appropriate intervention to address this issue, especially because weight gain might be undesired.

Analyzing Option D

Analyzing the nurse administering antihypertensive medications. Clients with myxedema can have different cardiovascular responses, so antihypertensive medications may not be needed and are not specific to this condition's needs.

Determining the correct answer

Based on our analysis, Option B (the nurse offering extra, warm blankets) is the most appropriate action that specifically addresses the needs of a client with myxedema.

Key concepts

NCLEX-RN Exam Preparation

NCLEX-RN exam preparation is a crucial process for every nursing student aiming to become a licensed registered nurse. The exam tests knowledge, skills, and abilities essential for safe and effective practice. To prepare for the NCLEX-RN, it is important to understand the format and the types of questions that will be asked.

There are strategies to enhance your study efforts and improve your performance on the exam. Firstly, familiarize yourself with the content areas the exam covers, like management of care, safety and infection control, health promotion and maintenance, psychosocial integrity, and physiological integrity, which includes direct care like the care for a hypothyroidism patient.

Creating and sticking to a study schedule, using NCLEX review courses or practice questions, and studying with a group can be beneficial. Many students benefit from guided review programs which can provide structure and focus. Remember, understanding and applying nursing concepts is key; rote memorization won't be as helpful on exam day because the NCLEX-RN requires critical thinking and decision-making skills.

Lastly, practice with as many sample questions and simulations as possible to become comfortable with the testing format. Focus especially on areas where your knowledge is weakest. Regular rest and balanced nutrition are also important to keep your mind sharp for the test.

Nursing Interventions

Nursing interventions are actions undertaken by nurses to help patients achieve their health goals. These can range from simple comfort measures to complex clinical decisions based on a patient's specific condition. Crafting an effective care plan and executing targeted interventions requires a deep understanding of the patient's condition, potential complications, and the goals of treatment.

For a myxedema patient, as shown in the textbook exercise, nursing interventions include providing warmth through extra blankets due to the patient's intolerance to cold. Hypothyroidism slows down metabolism, making maintaining body temperature difficult. Comfort measures, monitoring vital signs, and educating the patient about the condition and treatment plan are also key nursing interventions.

Nurses must assess each patient and tailor their interventions—sometimes this may include nutritional support, but care must be taken to avoid exacerbating potential weight gain issues that hypothyroid patients might face. Effective communication and collaboration with the healthcare team ensure the patient receives comprehensive care.

Hypothyroidism Patient Care

Caring for patients with hypothyroidism, such as those with myxedema, involves managing a constellation of symptoms influenced by a deficiency in thyroid hormones. These patients can experience fatigue, weight gain, cold intolerance, and dry skin among other symptoms.

Educating the patient about their condition and the importance of medication adherence is a pivotal component of care. Thyroid hormone replacement therapy, typically with levothyroxine, must be taken as prescribed to manage the condition effectively. Monitoring for potential side effects and ensuring regular follow-up with healthcare providers are also important.

As for specific nursing care strategies, maintaining the patient's warmth, as noted in the textbook exercise, is essential. Providing a draft-free environment and warm clothing can minimize discomfort. Nutritional interventions should focus on a balanced diet that supports overall health without promoting the unwanted weight gain that can occur with metabolic slowdown associated with hypothyroidism.

Regular monitoring of Thyroid Function Tests (TFTs) and adjusting the treatment regimen as needed is a critical part of the ongoing care for patients with hypothyroidism. The interdisciplinary care team, including nurses, plays a significant role in ensuring positive patient outcomes.