Author Question: The nurse is assessing a patient diagnosed with hypothyroidism. Which health assessment interview ... (Read 143 times)

justinmsk · **on:** Jun 25, 2018

The nurse is assessing a patient diagnosed with hypothyroidism. Which health assessment interview question should the nurse ask this patient?

1. Is your skin feeling rough and dry?
2. Is your skin smooth or flushed?
3. Does your skin feel clammy?
4. Do you have brown, shiny patches on the lower extremities?

Question 2

A patient recovering from a 30 TBSA full-thickness burn has swelling and inflammation of the intact skin around the burn area. What interventions should the nurse implement to reduce this patient's risk of developing further infections?

Select all that apply.

1. Report results of blood cultures.
2. Analyze daily leukocyte counts.
3. Follow strict isolation techniques.
4. Request placement of an indwelling catheter.
5. Request a dietary consult to ensure adequate nutritional intake.

tofugiraffe · **Reply #1 on:** Jun 25, 2018

Answer to Question 1

Correct Answer: 1
The patient experiencing hypothyroidism has rough, dry skin. Smooth, flushed skin is associated with hyperthyroidism. Cool, clammy skin is found in patients with low blood sugar. Brown shiny patches on the lower extremities are associated with poor circulation.

Answer to Question 2

Correct Answer: 1, 2, 3, 5
Interventions to reduce the risk of infection include reporting results of blood cultures so that antibiotic therapy can be initiated, monitoring leukocyte counts as indicators of immune system function, following strict isolation techniques to prevent the development of a nosocomial infection, and discussing the patient's nutritional needs with the dietician. The use of an indwelling catheter should be reduced or eliminated because of the high risk of urinary tract infection.