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    Ati beg med surg final proctored exam

    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: Myxedema coma is a life-threatening complication of severe hypothyroidism characterized by decreased consciousness, hypothermia, and respiratory depression. Aspiration precautions are critical due to impaired gag reflex and altered mental status, which increase the risk of aspiration pneumonia. Choice B reason: Turning the client every 4 hours is a standard nursing intervention to prevent pressure injuries but is not a priority in the acute management of myxedema coma. More urgent interventions related to airway, breathing, and circulation take precedence. Choice C reason: Monitoring blood pressure is important, but every 2 hours may not be sufficient in a critical situation. Continuous monitoring or more frequent checks may be required depending on the client's hemodynamic status. Choice D reason: Cooling measures are contraindicated in myxedema coma. These clients are already hypothermic due to low metabolic activity, and further cooling can worsen their condition. Instead, warming measures are typically initiated.

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