Registered Psychiatric Nurses of Canada Examination (RPNCE) Practice test

What symptom would indicate that Susan has not had a period for 4 months?

1. Parotid gland enlargement

2. Weight 15% below normal for her height

3. Lethargy and muscle weakness

4. Restrict food preferences and insist she finishes each meal

The correct answer is: Weight 15% below normal for her height

The indication that Susan has not had a period for 4 months can be related to significant weight loss. If a person maintains a weight that is 15% below normal for their height, it can lead to a state of malnutrition and hormonal imbalances, which may disrupt normal menstrual cycles, causing amenorrhea (the absence of menstruation). In many cases, particularly in females, a body weight significantly lower than what is considered healthy can signal that the body is not receiving adequate nutrition to support reproductive functions. This often results in a halt in hormonal production, particularly estrogen, which is crucial for maintaining regular menstrual cycles. Thus, weight being 15% below normal serves as a key symptom indicating possible amenorrhea. The other options, while they may relate to various conditions, do not directly connect to the absence of menstruation in the same way. Parotid gland enlargement could indicate other issues, such as eating disorders, not necessarily menstrual irregularity. Lethargy and muscle weakness can be symptoms of many different health concerns, not exclusively tied to the menstrual cycle. Restrictive eating behaviors can be a sign of an eating disorder, yet they do not specifically point to missed periods as clearly as significant weight loss does.