Levothyroxine sodium is prescribed for a client with hypothyroidism. The nurse should instruct the client to report which symptom because it indicates that the client is taking too much levothyroxine sodium?

A) While measuring the client’s vital signs is a routine nursing intervention, the reported symptoms of confusion and blurred vision after receiving glipizide suggest the possibility of hypoglycemia. Vital signs may not provide immediate information about the client’s glucose levels or help confirm hypoglycemia. However, if the client’s symptoms persist or worsen, assessing vital signs becomes important to monitor for signs of shock or other complications.

B) Obtaining a fingerstick blood glucose is the priority action in this situation. Glipizide is an oral antidiabetic medication that stimulates insulin release from the pancreas, leading to lower blood glucose levels. Symptoms such as confusion and blurred vision are indicative of hypoglycemia, a potential adverse effect of glipizide. Checking the client’s blood glucose level will confirm hypoglycemia and guide further interventions.

C) While performing a neurological exam may be warranted if the client’s symptoms persist or if there are concerns about other neurological issues, confirming hypoglycemia with a fingerstick blood glucose test should be the immediate priority.

D) Administering glucagon intramuscularly (IM) is indicated for severe hypoglycemia when the client is unconscious or unable to swallow. However, in this scenario, the client is conscious and able to report symptoms. Before administering glucagon, it is essential to confirm hypoglycemia with a blood glucose measurement to avoid unnecessary interventions.

Therefore, the nurse should promptly obtain a fingerstick blood glucose to confirm hypoglycemia and initiate appropriate treatment for the client’s symptoms.

A) Acetaminophen is metabolized by the liver, and jaundice can indicate liver dysfunction or impairment. Therefore, the nurse should notify the healthcare provider about the scheduled acetaminophen to ensure appropriate monitoring of liver function and to consider alternative pain management options.

B) Prednisone is a corticosteroid that primarily affects the immune system and inflammation and is not directly metabolized by the liver. While prednisone can have side effects related to liver function, such as hepatotoxicity, jaundice is not a common manifestation.

C) Captopril is an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor used to treat hypertension and heart failure. While it can affect renal function, jaundice is not a typical side effect of captopril.

D) Omeprazole is a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) used to reduce gastric acid production and treat conditions such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). It is primarily metabolized in the liver, but jaundice is not a common side effect associated with its use.