A patient with Graves' disease asks the nurse what caused the disorder. What is the best response by the nurse?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D) In genetically susceptible persons, antibodies are formed that cause excessive thyroid hormone secretion. Rationale: Graves' disease is an autoimmune disorder where the body's immune system mistakenly targets the thyroid gland, leading to the production of antibodies that stimulate the thyroid to produce excessive amounts of thyroid hormones. This overproduction of thyroid hormones results in symptoms such as weight loss, rapid heartbeat, and heat intolerance. Option A is incorrect because while there may be a genetic component to Graves' disease, it is not solely attributed to genetics. Option B is incorrect as Graves' disease is not caused by an iodine deficiency. Option C is incorrect as it describes the mechanism of Hashimoto's thyroiditis, where antibodies attack the thyroid gland leading to a deficiency of thyroid hormones. Educational Context: Understanding the etiology of Graves' disease is crucial for healthcare professionals to provide accurate information to patients and offer appropriate care. By knowing that it is an autoimmune condition involving the production of stimulating antibodies against the thyroid gland, nurses can better educate patients on the management and treatment options available. This knowledge also helps in early identification of symptoms and prompt intervention to prevent complications associated with excessive thyroid hormone secretion.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In this question, the correct answer is option C) regular insulin. Regular insulin is the only type that can be safely administered intravenously. This is because regular insulin has a fast onset of action, making it suitable for intravenous use to quickly lower blood glucose levels in emergency situations such as diabetic ketoacidosis or hyperglycemic crises. Option A) Lente insulin and option B) Semi-Lente insulin are both long-acting insulins that are designed for subcutaneous administration and have a slower onset of action compared to regular insulin. Administering these types intravenously can lead to erratic absorption and potentially dangerous fluctuations in blood glucose levels. Option D) NPH insulin is an intermediate-acting insulin that is also meant for subcutaneous administration. Using NPH insulin intravenously can result in unpredictable absorption patterns and is not recommended due to the risk of hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia. From an educational standpoint, understanding the different types of insulin and their appropriate routes of administration is crucial for healthcare professionals, especially those working in settings where intravenous insulin administration may be necessary. Proper knowledge of insulin types and their characteristics helps ensure safe and effective management of diabetes and related conditions.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B) corns. Corns are areas of thickened skin that develop on the feet due to excessive pressure or friction, common in individuals with diabetes. By observing for the presence of corns on the patient's feet during the next visit, the nurse can assess whether the patient is following the foot care instructions provided. Corns indicate that there is still excessive pressure or friction on certain areas of the feet, suggesting that the patient may not be implementing the recommended foot care practices effectively. Option A) colored socks is incorrect as the color of the socks does not provide any direct indication of the patient's foot care practices or diabetic management. Option C) straight toenails is incorrect as well because while proper nail care is important for diabetic patients, it is not the most reliable indicator of the effectiveness of foot care teaching. Option D) dermatophytosis is a fungal infection that can affect the feet, but it is not directly related to the effectiveness of the foot care teaching provided by the nurse. In an educational context, understanding the significance of assessing foot health in diabetic patients is crucial. Poor foot care can lead to serious complications such as ulcers and infections, which can result in amputations. Nurses play a vital role in educating diabetic patients on proper foot care practices to prevent such complications. By evaluating the outcomes of their teaching, nurses can tailor their education to meet the specific needs of each patient and promote better health outcomes.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In the case of Mrs. J, a 40-year-old woman diagnosed with hypothyroidism, the most appropriate treatment plan would involve option B, which is thyroid hormone replacement therapy. This is the correct answer because hypothyroidism is a condition characterized by an underactive thyroid gland, leading to insufficient production of thyroid hormones. As a result, replacing these hormones through medication is essential to restore the body's normal functioning and alleviate symptoms associated with hypothyroidism. Option A, a high-protein diet, and option C, a high-fiber diet, are not directly related to the treatment of hypothyroidism. While a balanced diet is important for overall health, dietary modifications alone cannot address the underlying hormonal imbalance caused by hypothyroidism. Similarly, option D, low-sodium medications, is not a primary treatment for hypothyroidism and would not address the root cause of the condition. Educationally, understanding the appropriate treatment for hypothyroidism is crucial for healthcare professionals and patients alike. By knowing that thyroid hormone replacement therapy is the cornerstone of managing hypothyroidism, healthcare providers can ensure that patients like Mrs. J receive the necessary treatment to improve their quality of life and prevent complications associated with untreated hypothyroidism. This knowledge also empowers patients to advocate for themselves and actively participate in their treatment plans, leading to better health outcomes.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In assessing a client's mental and emotional status before initiating therapy for an endocrine disorder, it is crucial to evaluate their ability to respond to questions (Option A). This is the correct answer because assessing the client's cognitive function, communication skills, and comprehension abilities through their responses provides valuable insight into their mental state, emotional well-being, and capacity to engage in therapy effectively. Option B, motor function, is not the most appropriate choice for assessing mental and emotional status in this context as it primarily evaluates physical movement and coordination, which may not directly correlate with the client's cognitive or emotional functioning related to endocrine disorders. Option C, sleep and awake cycles, while important for overall health assessment, focuses more on the client's circadian rhythm and rest patterns rather than their mental and emotional status specifically in relation to initiating therapy for an endocrine disorder. Option D, facial expression, can convey emotions and potential neurological issues but may not provide a comprehensive assessment of the client's mental and emotional status required for initiating therapy for an endocrine disorder. Educationally, understanding the rationale behind assessing a client's mental and emotional status before treatment is crucial for nurses and healthcare professionals to tailor interventions effectively, address potential barriers to therapy, and ensure optimal outcomes in managing endocrine disorders. It emphasizes the holistic approach to patient care and highlights the significance of thorough assessment in providing patient-centered care.