A nurse is talking with a client who has been taking levothyroxine to treat hypothyroidism.
The nurse should instruct the client to avoid taking which of the following over-the-counter medications within 4 hr of taking levothyroxine?

Choice A rationale:

Donepezil is a medication used to treat symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease and does not typically cause urinary retention.

Choice B rationale:

Scopolamine, an anticholinergic drug, can cause urinary retention. Anticholinergic drugs block the action of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that helps to contract the bladder muscles and relax the urinary sphincters to allow urination.

Choice C rationale:

Metoprolol is a beta-blocker used to treat high blood pressure and heart problems. It does not typically cause urinary retention.

Choice D rationale:

Acetaminophen is a common over-the-counter pain reliever and does not typically cause urinary retention.

Choice A rationale:

Ketorolac is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used for pain relief after surgery. However, it’s not typically administered every 3 hours. Overuse can lead to serious side effects.

Choice B rationale:

If the client’s pain level remains high after receiving ketorolac, administering an opioid medication like oxycodone may be appropriate.

Choice C rationale:

While acetaminophen can be used for pain relief, rectal administration is not typically the first choice for postoperative pain management.

Choice D rationale:

It’s inappropriate to label a patient as exhibiting drug-seeking behaviors simply because their reported pain level remains high after medication. Pain is subjective and should be addressed appropriately.