Which statement accurately describes Graves' disease?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Graves' disease is an autoimmune disorder that leads to overactivity of the thyroid gland (hyperthyroidism). Option A, "Exophthalmos occurs in Graves' disease," is the correct statement. Exophthalmos, or bulging eyes, is a classic symptom of Graves' disease due to inflammation and swelling of the eye muscles and tissues behind the eyes. Option B is incorrect because Graves' disease is actually the most common cause of hyperthyroidism, not uncommon. Option C is incorrect as hyperthyroidism in Graves' disease results from the production of stimulating antibodies, not tissue desensitization to the sympathetic nervous system. Option D is also incorrect because in Graves' disease, there is a decreased TSH level due to negative feedback from elevated thyroid hormone levels. From an educational standpoint, understanding the specific manifestations of Graves' disease is crucial for healthcare providers to accurately diagnose and manage patients with this condition. Recognizing exophthalmos as a hallmark sign can aid in early detection and appropriate treatment, highlighting the importance of detailed knowledge of endocrine disorders in clinical practice.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C) void one-half hour before the test, then at the time of the test. Rationale: For an accurate urine test for glucose and acetone, it is essential to instruct the patient to void one-half hour before the test and then at the time of the test. Voiding before the test helps to ensure that the urine sample is not contaminated with residual urine from the bladder, which could give false results. This practice helps obtain a more accurate representation of the body's current status in terms of glucose and acetone levels. Explanation of other options: A) Performing the urine test one-half hour after meals and at bedtime may not provide a clear indication of the baseline glucose and acetone levels in the urine because they can be influenced by recent food intake. B) Drinking three glasses of water before the test may dilute the urine sample, affecting the concentration of glucose and acetone, leading to inaccurate results. D) Increasing carbohydrate intake if the results are negative is not a correct practice as it does not address the immediate need for an accurate urine test and could potentially skew the results. Educational context: Understanding the correct timing and preparation for urine tests is crucial for healthcare professionals to accurately assess a patient's health status. Educating patients on the proper procedures for urine testing helps ensure reliable results and effective monitoring of conditions such as diabetes or ketosis. Proper instructions contribute to better patient outcomes and informed decision-making in healthcare.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In the case of Mrs. Jones, a 46-year-old diabetic who is overweight, managing her diet should assume the greatest priority. This is because diet plays a crucial role in controlling blood sugar levels in diabetics. By educating Mrs. Jones on the importance of a balanced diet, low in sugar and carbohydrates, she can better manage her diabetes and potentially lose weight, which can further improve her condition. Exercise, while important, may not be the immediate priority as dietary changes can have a more significant impact on blood sugar levels. Foot care and eye care are also important aspects of diabetes management, but they are secondary to diet in terms of immediate importance. In an educational context, this question highlights the significance of dietary management in diabetes care. It emphasizes the need for healthcare providers to prioritize teaching patients about nutrition and its impact on their condition. By focusing on diet first, patients like Mrs. Jones can take proactive steps towards better managing their diabetes and overall health.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is C) Severe tachycardia. A thyroid storm is a severe, life-threatening exacerbation of hyperthyroidism characterized by a surge in thyroid hormones. Severe tachycardia, or a rapid heartbeat, is a hallmark symptom of a thyroid storm and indicates a significant increase in the body's metabolic rate. Immediate intervention is necessary to prevent complications like heart failure or arrhythmias. Option A) Hypothermia is incorrect as individuals in a thyroid storm typically have a high fever due to the increased metabolic activity associated with hyperthyroidism. Option B) Low blood pressure is incorrect because individuals in a thyroid storm often present with hypertension due to the increased cardiac output and peripheral resistance caused by excess thyroid hormones. Option D) Weight gain is incorrect because hyperthyroidism is associated with weight loss due to increased metabolism, and weight gain would not be a typical symptom in a thyroid storm. Educationally, understanding the signs and symptoms of a thyroid storm is crucial for healthcare providers to provide timely and appropriate care. Recognizing the urgency of addressing severe tachycardia in a thyroid storm can prevent life-threatening complications and improve patient outcomes. It underscores the importance of quick assessment and intervention in managing endocrine emergencies.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In the context of assessing a client's general status and ruling out disorders related to the endocrine system, option B, which is a complete blood count and chemistry profile, is the most appropriate choice. This is because a complete blood count (CBC) provides information about red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets, which can indicate various health conditions like anemia or infections. The chemistry profile, on the other hand, evaluates organ function and can detect abnormalities in blood glucose levels, electrolytes, and kidney or liver function, which are crucial in diagnosing endocrine disorders such as diabetes or thyroid issues. Option A, which only includes a complete blood count, may provide some information about blood cell counts but lacks the comprehensive evaluation of organ function that the chemistry profile offers. Option C, which suggests only a chemistry profile, may not give a complete picture of the client's general health status as it does not include information on blood cell counts. Option D, radiographs of the chest or abdomen, are imaging studies that are not typically used as initial diagnostic tests for assessing general health status and ruling out endocrine disorders; they are more useful for visualizing anatomical structures. In an educational context, understanding the significance of different diagnostic tests in assessing endocrine disorders is crucial for healthcare professionals. By choosing the correct combination of tests like a complete blood count and chemistry profile, practitioners can gather comprehensive information to make accurate diagnoses and provide appropriate treatment plans for clients with endocrine-related concerns. This emphasizes the importance of selecting the most relevant and comprehensive diagnostic tools to ensure effective patient care.