The nurse is collecting data on a client admitted with myxedema. Which data collection technique would best support the admitting diagnosis?

• A. Auscultation of lung sounds
• B. Inspection of facial features
• C. Percussion of the thyroid gland
• D. Palpation of the adrenal glands

Answer: (B)

Assessing facial appearance is most informative when myxedema is suspected because severe hypothyroidism produces distinctive facial changes. Myxedema involves nonpitting edema from mucopolysaccharide accumulation, leading to puffy periorbital areas, coarse facial features, dry skin, and a dull expression. Inspecting the face directly documents these signs and supports the admitting diagnosis.

Auscultating lung sounds may reveal complications but doesn’t pinpoint myxedema. Percussion of the thyroid is not a standard way to diagnose the condition, and palpating the adrenal glands isn’t related to the presenting changes of hypothyroidism.