Adult Health Nursing First Chapter Quizlet

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Hashimoto's thyroiditis is an autoimmune disorder characterized by chronic inflammation of the thyroid gland. In this condition, lymphocytic infiltration and germinal centers can be seen in the thyroid tissue. This inflammation can lead to the formation of thyroid nodules and enlargement of the thyroid gland, causing symptoms such as difficulty swallowing and breathing due to compression of surrounding structures. Additionally, Hashimoto's thyroiditis can result in hypothyroidism over time, further contributing to the symptoms. Therefore, the patient in this case is most likely experiencing these symptoms due to Hashimoto's thyroiditis. Graves' disease, on the other hand, typically presents with hyperthyroidism and is less likely to manifest as compressive symptoms of the thyroid gland.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The first action the nurse should take when a patient post-thyroidectomy develops signs of hypocalcemia is to assess the patient's calcium level. By assessing the patient's calcium level through laboratory testing, the nurse can confirm the presence of hypocalcemia and determine the severity of the condition. This information will guide further interventions, such as administering calcium supplements or notifying the healthcare provider for additional management. It is important to confirm the diagnosis before proceeding with treatment to ensure appropriate and safe care for the patient.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: When a nurse discovers a discrepancy between the medication order and the patient's medication record, the priority action is to verify the medication order with the prescriber to ensure accuracy and patient safety. Administering the medication without clarification can put the patient at risk. Documenting the discrepancy and informing the charge nurse is important, but it should not delay verifying the order with the prescriber. Contacting the pharmacy for clarification may be necessary in some cases, but the immediate action should be to confirm the prescription with the prescriber to prevent errors and ensure the patient receives the correct medication.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The patient's symptoms of chest pain occurring during heavy lifting or physical exertion and being relieved by rest are classic characteristics of stable angina. Stable angina is caused by transient myocardial ischemia due to a fixed coronary artery obstruction. Typically, the pain is predictable and reproducible, occurring with exertion and relieved by rest. The transient ST-segment depression on ECG is also a common finding in stable angina, reflecting myocardial ischemia during episodes of chest pain.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: A hard mass and a reddened area on one breast are key clinical signs that confirm the diagnosis of mastitis. Mastitis is an infection of the breast tissue that often presents with localized redness, warmth, and swelling of the breast. The presence of a hard mass along with the other symptoms suggests inflammation and infection within the breast tissue. In contrast, the other findings such as enlarged glands in the axilla, normal temperature, and engorged breasts are not specific findings for mastitis and may be present in other conditions. Therefore, the presence of a hard mass and reddened area on one breast is the additional finding that strongly confirms the diagnosis of mastitis in this case.