A nurse is caring for a client who is in a myxedema coma. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Explanation & Rationale
Choice A reason: Initiating cooling measures is inappropriate for myxedema coma, a hypothyroid crisis causing hypothermia due to low metabolic rate. Warming measures are needed to correct hypothermia, as cooling exacerbates the condition, making this an incorrect and potentially harmful intervention. Choice B reason: Turning the client every 4 hours prevents pressure ulcers but is not the priority in myxedema coma. Aspiration risk from depressed consciousness and respiratory drive is more immediate, requiring precautions to protect the airway, making this a secondary intervention. Choice C reason: Placing the client on aspiration precautions is critical in myxedema coma, as severe hypothyroidism causes depressed consciousness and respiratory drive, increasing aspiration risk. Precautions like elevating the head of the bed protect the airway, addressing the immediate life-threatening risk in this condition. Choice D reason: Checking blood pressure every 2 hours is important but not the priority in myxedema coma. Hypotension occurs, but aspiration risk from altered mental status and respiratory depression poses a greater immediate threat, making aspiration precautions the primary intervention.