Correct Answers 2026 Updated.
a patient has a serum calcium total level of 13.4 mg/dL, which disorder would the nurse
suspect?
a. hyperphosphatemia
b. hyperparathyroidism
c. magnesium deficiency
d. type 2 diabetes - Answer B-hyperparathyroidism
a patient with thyroid nodules is to undergo a thyroid scan with oral radioactive isotopes which
instructions if given by the nurse are appropriate?
a. "the test cannot be complete if you have an allergy to iodine or shellfish"
b. "it is important to drink at least 2-3 liters of liquids for the next 1-2 days"
c. "isolation is required for 24 hours until the radioactive substance is eliminated from the body"
d. "sedation is necessary to ensure that you do not move while the scanner moves around your
neck" - Answer B-drink fluids
a patient is exhibiting signs of hypothyroidism which diagnostic test would the nurse expect to
be done first?
a. t4
b. thyroid antibodies
c. ft3
d. TSH - Answer D-TSH
the nurse is caring for a patient who just returned to the surgical unit following a thyroidectomy.
the nurse is MOST concerned if which is observed?
a. pt complains of increased thirst
b. pt reports sore throat when swallowing
c. pt supports her head when moving in bed
d. pt makes harsh vibratory sounds when breathing - Answer D-harsh vibratory sounds-
>airway obstruction
a patient is admitted to the unit for hypothyroid symptoms; hypotension and prolonged fatigue.
pt explains changed levothyroxine brand recently due to insurance. labs reveal suboptimal levels
of t3 and t4. which of the following assessments findings would be emergent and need to be
reported immediately? (SELECT ALL THAT APPLY)
, a. severe periorbital and facial edema
b. thin, brittle nails
c. altered mental status
d. difficulty waking up
e. cold intolerance - Answer A, C, D, E
THICK brittle nails
pt is in myxedema coma following recent Covid illness. which of the following treatments would
you expect ordered?
a. o2 support via nasal canula and standing respiratory therapy orders
b. IV thyroid hormone
c. fever reducers to keep pt temp low
d. A & B - Answer D. A & B
With myxedema coma, patient's vital signs will be depressed instead of elevated, so antipyretics
are not necessary. Patient needs support of vital functions and infusion of thyroid hormone to
establish hemodynamic stability.
the nurse administers corticosteroids to a pt with acute adrenal insufficiency. the nurse
determines the treatment is effective if what is observed?
a. pt is alert and oriented
b. pt lung sounds are clear
c. pt urinary output decreases
d. pt potassium level is 5.7 - Answer A. pt alert and oriented
Addison's-->mental problems
An IV hydrocortisone infusion is started before a patient is taken to surgery for a bilateral
adrenalectomy. Which explanation if MOST appropriate?
a. "the medication prevents sodium and water retention after surgery"
b. "the drug prevents clots from forming in the legs during your recovery from surgery"
c. "this medicine is given to help your body respond to stress after removal of the adrenal
glands"
d. "this drug stimulates your immune system and promotes wound healing" - Answer C- help
body adapt to adrenal glands no mo
pt has purple stretch marks on abdomen. further exam shows bruises in various stages of
healing, new facial hair, and reddened cheeks. pt hospitalized for severe asthma and given
steroids. vitals are stable. pt A&O. which would you expect to be ordered for pt?
a. 24 h urine collection at home to determine cortisol levels