Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 88%
Simulated
A nurse is providing teaching to a client about hypothyroidism. Which of the following potentially fatal conditions associated with hypothyroidism will the nurse include?
Correct answer
A
Rationale
The correct answer is A: Myxedema coma. Myxedema coma is a life-threatening condition that can occur in severe, untreated hypothyroidism. It is characterized by extreme hypothyroidism leading to decreased mental status, hypothermia, bradycardia, and respiratory depression. It requires immediate medical intervention. Goiters (B) are enlarged thyroid glands but not usually life-threatening. Sjogren's syndrome (C) is an autoimmune disorder affecting moisture-producing glands, not directly linked to hypothyroidism. Hashimoto's disease (D) is a common cause of hypothyroidism but not a potentially fatal condition on its own.