The nurse is providing client teaching regarding the administration of levothyroxine.
What is the nurse’s priority teaching point?
“Remain in the upright position for 30 minutes after taking it.”.
“Take the medication with a full glass of water.”.
“Take the medication before going to bed at night.”.
“Take the medication after breakfast.”.
The Correct Answer is B
Levothyroxine is a synthetic thyroid hormone that is used to treat hypothyroidism. It should be taken on an empty stomach, preferably in the morning, with a full glass of water to facilitate absorption and prevent choking. Taking the medication with food or other substances may interfere with its effectiveness.
Choice A is wrong because levothyroxine does not need to be taken after breakfast.
In fact, taking it after breakfast may reduce its absorption and efficacy.
Choice C is wrong because levothyroxine does not require the patient to remain in the upright position for 30 minutes after administering.
This instruction is more applicable to bisphosphonates, which are drugs used to treat osteoporosis.
Choice D is wrong because levothyroxine should not be taken at night.
Taking it at night may cause insomnia, as well as reduced absorption and efficacy.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Glycerin suppositories are safe and effective for infants with constipation. They work by lubricating and softening the stool, and stimulating the rectal muscles to contract.
Choice B is wrong because magnesium hydroxide is not recommended for infants under 6 months of age, and may cause diarrhea, electrolyte imbalance, or magnesium toxicity.
Choice Cis wrong because watchful waiting for 24 hours may not be enough to relieve the infant’s discomfort and may lead to further complications such as fecal impaction or dehydration.
Choice Dis wrong because feeding supplementation with free water may not be sufficient to treat constipation, and may dilute the infant’s intake of nutrients and electrolytes.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Prednisone is a glucocorticoid that suppresses the production of natural cortisol by the adrenal glands. Taking prednisone on alternate days allows the adrenal glands to recover and produce some cortisol on the days without prednisone.
Choice B is wrong because prednisone does not eliminate adverse side effects, but may cause some such as weight gain, fluid retention, increased blood pressure, increased blood glucose, and increased risk of infection.
Choice C is wrong because there is no evidence of steroid tolerance, which means that higher doses are needed to achieve the same effect.
Choice D is wrong because prednisone does not prolong therapeutic effects, but may decrease them over time due to feedback inhibition of cortisol secretion.
Normal ranges for cortisol are 6 to 23 mcg/dL in the morning and 2 to 11 mcg/dL in the afternoon.
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