NCLEX : Symptoms and Tests for Endocrine Conditions

Study concepts, example questions & explanations for NCLEX

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Example Questions

Example Question #1 : 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 __________.

Possible Answers:

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

Marks the patient NPO 2 hours before the test

Restricts meals 4-8 hours before the test

Correct answer:

Marks the patient NPO 2 hours before the test

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.

Example Question #1241 : Nclex

The nurse cares for a patient newly diagnosed with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Which of the following is a characteristic sign of SLE?

Possible Answers:

Lesions on extremities

Blood in urine

Arthritis and joint swelling

Butterfly rash across bridge of nose and cheeks

Pain during exposure to cold

Correct answer:

Butterfly rash across bridge of nose and cheeks

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 

Example Question #2 : Symptoms And Tests For Endocrine Conditions

The nurse reviews lab results for a patient with hyperparathyroidism. Which of the following changes in lab findings would the nurse expect?

Possible Answers:

Low vitamin D level

Low serum calcium level

High serum calcium level

Normal vitamin D level

Low parathyroid hormone level

Correct answer:

High 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.

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