A client is admitted to an acute care facility with a tentative diagnosis of hypoparathyroidism. The nurse should monitor the client closely for the related problem of:

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Hypoparathyroidism is a condition characterized by decreased levels of parathyroid hormone, which can lead to low levels of calcium in the blood (hypocalcemia). Profound neuromuscular irritability is a significant complication of hypocalcemia and is a key concern for clients with hypoparathyroidism. Symptoms can include muscle cramps, tetany, seizures, and decreased cardiac contractility. Monitoring for neuromuscular irritability and promptly addressing low calcium levels are essential in the care of clients with hypoparathyroidism.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Option C, "As you age, hormonal imbalances are the more likely cause of your disease," is the best response. Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a common condition in aging men characterized by an enlarged prostate gland. It is predominantly influenced by hormonal changes, specifically the imbalance between levels of testosterone and estrogen as men age. This hormonal imbalance leads to the proliferation of prostatic tissue and subsequent enlargement of the prostate gland, causing symptoms such as urinary frequency, urgency, weak stream, and difficulty emptying the bladder. Chronic infection of the urinary tract (Option A) and chronic cigarette smoking (Option B) are not the primary causes of BPH. While chronic obstruction of the bladder due to a stone (Option D) can cause similar symptoms to BPH, the underlying etiology of BPH is related to hormonal changes associated with aging.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Nurse Carlos should include weight loss as one of the common symptoms of tuberculosis. Unintentional weight loss is a classic symptom seen in individuals with active tuberculosis infection. This weight loss is often accompanied by other symptoms such as fever, night sweats, and fatigue. It is important for Nurse Carlos to educate the community about this symptom as it can be a key indicator for seeking medical evaluation and treatment for tuberculosis. Dyspnea on exertion, increased appetite, and mental status changes are not typically common symptoms associated with tuberculosis.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In the early part of the hepatic inflammatory disorder, the most likely symptom/sign is anorexia. Anorexia refers to a decreased appetite or lack of interest in food, which is commonly seen in patients with liver diseases such as hepatitis. Anorexia in the setting of liver inflammation indicates a disruption in the normal metabolic processes of the liver. This symptom is often accompanied by general malaise, fatigue, and weight loss. Dark urine (choice A) may occur later in the disease progression due to the buildup of bilirubin in the blood. Occult blood in stools (choice B) may be a sign of gastrointestinal bleeding, which can be a complication of advanced liver disease but is not typically an early symptom. Ascites (choice C) is the accumulation of fluid in the peritoneal cavity and is usually a late sign of liver dysfunction.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Washing your feet in hot water is not recommended as it can actually worsen diabetic foot conditions. Hot water can lead to burns and damage the skin, especially for individuals with reduced sensation in their feet due to diabetes. It is advised to wash feet in warm water instead, avoiding hot temperatures to prevent injuries and complications. The other options provide important aspects of diabetic foot care such as wearing appropriate shoes, trimming toenails carefully, and being mindful of footwear choices to protect the feet.