The patient is being treated for hypothyroidism. Under which circumstances would the nurse monitor this patient for development of myxedema crisis? Note: Credit will be given only if all correct choices and no incorrect choices are selected

Question

Select all that apply. 1. The patient is injured in an automobile accident.
2. The patient develops a urinary tract infection.
3. The patient accidentally doubled the dose of thyroid replacement medications today.
4. The patient must have surgery for a ruptured appendix.
5. The patient's husband just filed for divorce.

Answer 1

1,2,4,5
Rationale 1: Myxedema crisis may be precipitated by trauma.
Rationale 2: Myxedema crisis may be precipitated by infection.
Rationale 3: Excessive use of thyroid replacement medications would not precipitate myxedema crisis.
Rationale 4: Pain, infection, and worry about impending surgery can precipitate myxedema crisis.
Rationale 5: Stress can induce myxedema crisis.