A patient has been told that the recent changes in her facial features are due to a hormonal pathology called myxedema. Her nurse’s explanation will be based on understanding that myxedema is:
Cerebral edema the morning after a college party.
Deposit of fatty tissue associated with hyperaldosteronism.
Proliferation of tissue behind the eyes that is common in hyperthyroidism.
Accumulation of mucopolysaccharides in the skin and other tissues.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A rationale
Cerebral edema is the swelling of the brain due to fluid accumulation, which can occur after excessive alcohol consumption. However, it is not related to myxedema, which is a condition associated with severe hypothyroidism.
Choice B rationale
The deposit of fatty tissue is associated with conditions like hyperaldosteronism, where there is an excess production of aldosterone. This condition does not cause the characteristic skin changes seen in myxedema.
Choice C rationale
Proliferation of tissue behind the eyes, known as exophthalmos, is common in hyperthyroidism, particularly in Graves’ disease. Myxedema, on the other hand, is related to severe hypothyroidism and involves different pathophysiological mechanisms.
Choice D rationale
Myxedema is characterized by the accumulation of mucopolysaccharides in the skin and other tissues, leading to swelling and thickening of the skin. This condition is a result of severe hypothyroidism and can lead to a myxedema crisis if left untreated.
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Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Acute pancreatitis is characterized by severe epigastric pain and elevated levels of amylase and lipase. These enzymes are released into the bloodstream when the pancreas is inflamed, making acute pancreatitis the most likely diagnosis.
Choice B rationale
Acute hematochezia refers to the passage of fresh blood through the anus, usually in or with stools. It is not associated with elevated amylase and lipase levels or severe epigastric pain.
Choice C rationale
Left heart failure can cause symptoms such as shortness of breath and fluid retention, but it does not typically cause elevated amylase and lipase levels or severe epigastric pain.
Choice D rationale
Chronic hepatic failure involves long-term liver damage and may present with jaundice, ascites, and other symptoms. It is not associated with elevated amylase and lipase levels or severe epigastric pain.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Hyperkalemia can cause weakness and fatigue, but it is not directly related to acute coronary syndrome (ACS). ACS is primarily associated with chest pain and other cardiac symptoms.
Choice B rationale
Experiencing chest pain when climbing a flight of stairs may indicate stable angina, which is a form of chronic coronary artery disease. However, it does not meet the criteria for ACS, which involves more severe and persistent symptoms.
Choice C rationale
Persistent and severe chest pain when at rest is a hallmark symptom of acute coronary syndrome (ACS). This condition requires immediate medical attention as it can lead to myocardial infarction (heart attack) or other serious complications.
Choice D rationale
Paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnea (PND) is a symptom of heart failure, not acute coronary syndrome (ACS). While heart failure can coexist with ACS, PND alone does not indicate ACS4.