A 40-year-old woman presents to the clinic with complaints of fatigue and weight gain. On assessment, the nurse finds that the patient has cold intolerance, dry skin, and a slow heart rate. The nurse suspects:

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Hypothyroidism. In this case, the patient's symptoms of fatigue, weight gain, cold intolerance, dry skin, and slow heart rate are indicative of hypothyroidism. The thyroid gland is underactive, leading to decreased production of thyroid hormones, which regulate metabolism. These symptoms align with the typical clinical presentation of hypothyroidism. Other choices are incorrect because hyperthyroidism (choice A) would present with symptoms like weight loss, heat intolerance, and a fast heart rate. Cushing's syndrome (choice C) and Addison's disease (choice D) are both conditions related to the adrenal glands and would have different symptom presentations compared to what is described in the case scenario.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Tremors and dizziness. Hypoglycemia is characterized by low blood sugar levels. Tremors and dizziness are common symptoms due to the brain not receiving enough glucose for energy. Tachycardia and nausea (choice A) are more indicative of hyperglycemia. Polyuria and polydipsia (choice B) are classic symptoms of hyperglycemia in diabetes. Weight loss and fatigue (choice D) are not specific symptoms of hypoglycemia.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Correct Answer: A - Encouraging early ambulation Rationale: 1. Early ambulation helps prevent post-operative complications like blood clots and pneumonia. 2. Movement promotes circulation, aids in lung expansion, and prevents muscle atrophy. 3. It also supports bowel function and helps prevent constipation, a common post-operative issue. 4. Ambulation aids in overall recovery and reduces the risk of complications associated with prolonged immobility. Other Choices: B: Administering pain medication - Important for comfort but not the top priority for preventing complications. C: Providing wound care and dressing changes - Necessary for wound healing but not the immediate priority to prevent complications. D: Monitoring for signs of infection - Critical but not the primary intervention to prevent complications immediately post-op.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Increased wheezing and shortness of breath. During an asthma exacerbation, bronchial airways become inflamed and narrowed, leading to increased wheezing and shortness of breath. This is a classic sign of worsening asthma. Other choices are incorrect because: A) Decreased work of breathing is not expected in an asthma exacerbation as the patient usually struggles to breathe. C) Improved oxygen saturation is unlikely as airway obstruction can lead to decreased oxygen levels. D) Decreased sputum production is not a typical sign of asthma exacerbation; in fact, increased sputum production may occur due to airway inflammation.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because encouraging deep breathing and coughing exercises helps to improve lung function and prevent complications in pneumonia. This intervention can help clear secretions, improve oxygenation, and prevent respiratory distress. Administering antibiotics (choice A) is important but not the priority for immediate patient care. Providing pain relief (choice C) is essential but addressing respiratory function is more critical. Monitoring oxygen saturation levels (choice D) is necessary, but promoting lung function through exercises takes precedence.