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The nurse knows that which assessment finding suggests hyperthyroidism?

a) Weight gain
b) Bradycardia
c) Cool and dry skin
d) Increased heart rate

User Supersize
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1 Answer

3 votes

Final Answer:

Increased heart rate finds suggesting hyperthyroidism. Thus optin D is correct.

Step-by-step explanation:

Hyperthyroidism is a condition characterized by an overactive thyroid gland, leading to an excess production of thyroid hormones. One of the hallmark assessment findings associated with hyperthyroidism is an increased heart rate, medically termed as tachycardia. The thyroid hormones influence the body's metabolism, affecting various physiological processes, including the heart rate. As the thyroid gland becomes hyperactive, it releases an abundance of hormones like thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), which can stimulate the heart, resulting in a faster heart rate.

The heart rate is determined by the number of heartbeats per minute, which can be measured through pulse assessment. Normally, an adult's resting heart rate ranges between 60 to 100 beats per minute. However, in individuals with hyperthyroidism, the heart rate can exceed this range, often surpassing 100 beats per minute at rest. This elevation in heart rate occurs due to the increased metabolic rate caused by excessive thyroid hormones, leading to increased cardiac output and demand for oxygen by the tissues.

Healthcare professionals, especially nurses, rely on various assessment findings to identify underlying health conditions. In the case of hyperthyroidism, recognizing the increased heart rate during a patient assessment is crucial. It prompts further investigation and facilitates timely intervention to manage the condition and prevent potential complications associated with the accelerated metabolic state. Regular monitoring of vital signs, including heart rate, assists in tracking the progression of hyperthyroidism and evaluating the effectiveness of treatment interventions in controlling the condition. Thus option D is correct.

User ThatGuyRussell
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