A nurse is preparing to administer levothyroxine 275 mcg PO to a client. The amount available is levothyroxine 137 mcg/tablet.

How many tablets should the nurse administer? (Round to the nearest whole number. Use a leading zero if it applies.

(Do not use a trailing zero)

Choice A rationale
Monitoring intake and output is important but not the first priority. The immediate concern is to address the client’s pain.
Choice B rationale

Administering pain medication is the first priority. Managing the client’s pain will help alleviate discomfort and allow for further assessment and treatment.
Choice C rationale
Ambulating in the hall is not appropriate for a client experiencing flank pain and nausea. It could exacerbate the symptoms.
Choice D rationale
Straining the urine is important for identifying any stones, but it is not the first priority. Pain management should be addressed first.

Choice A rationale
Administering the medication with each meal is incorrect. Clopidogrel can be taken with or without food, and there is no specific requirement to administer it with each meal. The primary concern with clopidogrel is monitoring for signs of bleeding.
Choice B rationale
Initiating contact precautions is incorrect. Clopidogrel is an antiplatelet medication and does not require contact precautions. Contact precautions are typically used for infections that can be transmitted through direct or indirect contact.
Choice C rationale
Having suction equipment at the bedside is incorrect. Suction equipment is not necessary for clients taking clopidogrel. The primary concern with clopidogrel is monitoring for signs of bleeding, not respiratory issues.
Choice D rationale
Monitoring the client for black, tarry stools is correct. Clopidogrel increases the risk of bleeding, and black, tarry stools can be an indication of gastrointestinal bleeding. It is important to monitor for this adverse effect to ensure the client’s safety.