Which change in vital signs would you instruct a nursing assistant to report immediately for a patient with hyperthyroidism?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In the context of a patient with hyperthyroidism, an increased and rapid heart rate (Option A) is a vital sign change that should be reported immediately. This is because hyperthyroidism can lead to an overactive thyroid gland, causing an increase in metabolism and subsequent symptoms such as tachycardia. Monitoring heart rate is crucial in hyperthyroid patients as it can indicate thyroid hormone levels and the effectiveness of treatment. Decreased systolic blood pressure (Option B) is not typically associated with hyperthyroidism. In fact, hypertension is more commonly seen in these patients due to increased cardiac output. Increased respiratory rate (Option C) may occur as a compensatory mechanism in some conditions, but it is not the primary vital sign change to monitor in hyperthyroidism. Decreased oral temperature (Option D) is not a common sign of hyperthyroidism, as these patients often have heat intolerance and may have an elevated temperature. From an educational standpoint, it is essential for nursing assistants to understand the specific vital sign changes associated with hyperthyroidism to provide timely and appropriate care to these patients. This question reinforces the importance of recognizing and reporting abnormal vital signs promptly to the healthcare team to prevent complications in patients with endocrine disorders.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The primary function of calcitonin is to regulate calcium and phosphorus balance in the body. Calcitonin works to decrease blood calcium levels by inhibiting bone breakdown and increasing calcium excretion by the kidneys. This helps maintain the overall balance of calcium and phosphorus in the body. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect as they do not align with the known function of calcitonin. Sodium and potassium balance, magnesium balance, and norepinephrine balance are not directly influenced by calcitonin.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Norepinephrine plus phentolamine. Norepinephrine is a potent vasopressor that can increase blood pressure and cardiac output in acute cardiac failure. Phentolamine is an alpha-blocker that can help counteract the vasoconstrictive effects of norepinephrine. Rationale: 1. Norepinephrine: Increases blood pressure and cardiac output, improving perfusion to vital organs in acute cardiac failure. 2. Phentolamine: Counteracts the vasoconstrictive effects of norepinephrine, preventing excessive vasoconstriction. Summary: A: Dopamine at a very high dose may not be as effective as norepinephrine in acute cardiac failure. B: Ephedrine is a less potent vasopressor compared to norepinephrine. C: Ephedrine plus propranolol combination may lead to conflicting effects on blood pressure and heart rate

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Postural hypotension. Terazosin is an alpha-1 blocker used to treat hypertension and BPH. Postural hypotension is a common side effect due to vasodilation, causing a sudden drop in blood pressure when changing positions. This side effect can lead to dizziness, fainting, and falls, especially in elderly patients. Bronchospasm (A) is not a common side effect of terazosin. Heart failure (C) is not a typical side effect and is unlikely with proper monitoring. Sedation (D) is not a significant side effect of terazosin.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Amphetamine. Amphetamine is not a catecholamine because it is a synthetic drug, not naturally produced by the body like adrenaline (A), noradrenaline (B), and isoprenaline (D). Catecholamines are a class of neurotransmitters that include dopamine, adrenaline, and noradrenaline, all of which have a catechol group in their chemical structure. Amphetamine, on the other hand, is a substituted phenethylamine with no catechol group. This distinction makes amphetamine the only non-catecholamine among the given options.