A patient with a history of Graves' disease is admitted to the unit with shortness of breath. The nurse notes the patient's vital signs: T 103° F, P 160, R 24, BP 160/80. The nurse also notes distended neck veins. The nurse suspects the patient has which medical emergency?

Question

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In a thyroid crisis, all the signs and symptoms of hyperthyroidism are exaggerated. Additionally, the patient may develop nausea, vomiting, severe tachycardia, severe hypertension, and occasionally hyperthermia up to 41° C (106° F). Extreme restlessness, cardiac dysrhythmia, and delirium may also occur. The patient may develop heart failure and may die.

A Patient with a History of Graves' Disease Is Admitted