Symptoms and Tests for Endocrine Conditions
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NCLEX-PN › Symptoms and Tests for Endocrine Conditions
The nurse is caring for a patient who is to receive a fasting blood glucose test. The nurse does all of the following to prepare the patient except __________.
Marks the patient NPO 2 hours before the test
Restricts meals 4-8 hours before the test
Stops the patient's D5 0.45 IV maintenance fluid
Instructs the patient to refrain from the use of hard candy
Instructs the patient not to use any gum or breath mints
Explanation
The patient should refrain from ingesting any material that may contain sugar prior to a fasting blood glucose. However, is not necessary for a patient to be labeled NPO as they are still able to ingest water. All other preparations should be made.
The nurse reviews lab results for a patient with hyperparathyroidism. Which of the following changes in lab findings would the nurse expect?
High serum calcium level
Low parathyroid hormone level
Normal vitamin D level
Low vitamin D level
Low serum calcium level
Explanation
The nurse should know the parathyroid glands regulate serum calcium levels; in hyperparathyroidism, serum calcium levels are elevated. Parathyroid hormones are not low in hyperparathyroidism due to the overactivity of the parathyroid glands. Urine calcium may be elevated due to spilling of the high serum calcium level into the urine. Vitamin D levels should be low, as the body will increase vitamin D in the blood to lower the calcium level.
The nurse cares for a patient newly diagnosed with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Which of the following is a characteristic sign of SLE?
Butterfly rash across bridge of nose and cheeks
Arthritis and joint swelling
Blood in urine
Lesions on extremities
Pain during exposure to cold
Explanation
The most characteristic sign of SLE is a butterfly rash across the bridge of nose and cheeks. The others listed are also signs and symptoms of SLE, but the most well-known sign that is specific to SLE is the butterfly rash. Arthritis and joint swelling, hematuria, lesions on extremities, and pain during exposure to cold (Raynaud’s phenomenon) may be signs of other diseases