An older patient who is seen in the clinic has a palpable thyroid gland. What should the nurse realize this finding indicates?
1. normal finding in the older patient
2. onset of hypertension
3. onset of diabetes mellitus
4. explanation for a reduced urine output
Correct Answer: 1
Older patients' thyroid glands can be more fibrotic and nodular as a normal finding. Without other assessments or supporting data, a palpable thyroid gland does not explain the onset of hypertension, diabetes mellitus, or reduction in urine output.
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