A nurse is assessing a client who has hyperthyroidism. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?
Explanation & Rationale
Choice A reason: Diarrhea is a hallmark of hyperthyroidism, as excess thyroid hormone accelerates gastrointestinal motility via increased sympathetic activity and metabolic rate. This leads to frequent, loose stools, reflecting the hypermetabolic state’s impact on intestinal transit, making it a primary expected finding. Choice B reason: Facial edema is not typical in hyperthyroidism, which causes warm, moist skin or exophthalmos. Edema is associated with hypothyroidism due to fluid retention from low metabolism, making this an incorrect finding for hyperthyroidism’s clinical presentation. Choice C reason: Bradycardia is not expected in hyperthyroidism, which causes tachycardia due to thyroid hormone’s stimulation of beta-adrenergic receptors, increasing heart rate. Bradycardia occurs in hypothyroidism, making this an incorrect manifestation for hyperthyroidism’s cardiovascular effects. Choice D reason: Weight gain is not associated with hyperthyroidism, which causes weight loss due to increased metabolic rate burning calories. Weight gain is typical of hypothyroidism, where metabolism slows, making this an incorrect finding for hyperthyroidism’s metabolic profile.