A 40-year-old woman had a total thyroidectomy for hyperthyroidism after medical management was not successful. The nurse is preparing to teach the client about her thyroid hormone replacement (levothyroxine).
Which health teaching will the nurse include about this drug?
Select all that apply.
"You will need to get frequent laboratory tests to monitor your thyroid hormone levels."
"You will only need to take the drug for about 3 to 6 months."
"Don't take more of the drug than prescribed to prevent hyperthyroidism symptoms."
"Check with your primary health care provider if you take any other medication or herb.”
Correct Answer : A,C,D
The correct answers are a, c, and d. The client will need to take thyroid hormone replacement (levothyroxine) for the rest of her life since she had a total thyroidectomy. The dosage will need to be carefully monitored to ensure that it is correct, and laboratory tests will need to be done frequently to monitor thyroid hormone levels. Taking too much of the drug can cause hyperthyroidism symptoms, so it is important not to take more than prescribed. It is also important to check with a healthcare provider before taking any other medications or herbs, as they can interact with levothyroxine.
Answer b is incorrect because the client will need to take the drug for the rest of her life.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) is a measure of the average blood glucose levels over the past 2-3 months. An HbA1c level of less than 7% is associated with a reduced risk of microvascular and macrovascular complications in patients with diabetes. This is a critical goal because uncontrolled blood glucose levels can lead to complications such as neuropathy, nephropathy, retinopathy, and cardiovascular disease.
While options a, c, and d are also important in the management of diabetes, they are not as critical as achieving glycemic control. Choosing a diet that distributes calories throughout the day can help regulate blood glucose levels and prevent hypoglycemia. Following a diet and exercise plan that results in weight loss can also help improve glycemic control and reduce the risk of complications. Understanding the reasons for eliminating simple sugars in the diet is important for overall diabetes education, but it is not the most important goal in the plan of care for this patient at this time.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A decrease in the level of consciousness is a serious sign and could be an indication of worsening conditions. It is essential for the nurse to ensure that the patient's airway is open and clear, as a compromised airway can lead to hypoxia and a further decrease in consciousness. Therefore, maintaining a patent airway should be the nurse's priority action in this situation.
While monitoring blood pressure and restricting oral intake may be important interventions in certain situations, they are not the priority actions in this scenario. Administering SQ insulin may not be necessary for a patient with hypothyroidism and acute appendicitis.
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