A nurse is caring for a client with a pheochromocytoma. Which assessment finding will the nurse expect for this client?
Decreased pulse
Elevated blood pressure
Cold intolerance
Decreased respiratory rate
The Correct Answer is B
Rationale:
A. A decreased pulse is not typically associated with pheochromocytoma. This condition is characterized by the excessive release of catecholamines, which usually leads to an increased heart rate.
B. Pheochromocytoma is a tumor of the adrenal medulla that causes excessive secretion of catecholamines, leading to episodic or sustained hypertension. Elevated blood pressure is a hallmark symptom of this condition.
C. Cold intolerance is more commonly associated with hypothyroidism and is not a typical finding in pheochromocytoma.
D. Decreased respiratory rate is not characteristic of pheochromocytoma; instead, clients may experience symptoms such as palpitations, sweating, and headaches due to the elevated catecholamine levels.
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Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Fluid intake may need to be monitored, but restricting fluids is not typically advised unless specifically directed by the healthcare provider due to complications like diabetes insipidus.
B. Avoiding deep breathing exercises is not recommended, as these exercises are important for preventing respiratory complications postoperatively.
C. Lying flat for 48 hours after surgery is incorrect; the head of the bed is usually elevated to decrease intracranial pressure and promote healing.
D. Avoiding blowing the nose and bending at the waist is crucial after transsphenoidal hypophysectomy to prevent increased intracranial pressure and avoid disrupting the surgical site, which could lead to complications such as cerebrospinal fluid leakage.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Discomfort at the puncture site is expected after a thoracentesis and typically managed with analgesics.
B. A decreased temperature is not a common complication of thoracentesis and might indicate other issues, but it is not immediately alarming.
C. An increased heart rate (tachycardia) could be a sign of a pneumothorax, hemorrhage, or other serious complications following thoracentesis. This requires immediate assessment and intervention.
D. Serosanguineous drainage is expected to some extent, but it should be monitored for changes that might indicate a complication such as infection or continued bleeding.