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 C
Explanation
Propylthiouracil (PTU) is an antithyroid drug that blocks the synthesis of thyroid hormones by interfering with the oxidation of iodine and the coupling of iodotyrosines.
This reduces the levels of triiodothyronine (T) and thyroxine (T) in the blood and relieves the symptoms of hyperthyroidism.
Choice A is wrong because PTU does not destroy any part of the thyroid gland.
It only inhibits the production of thyroid hormones within the gland.
Choice B is wrong because PTU does not suppress the anterior pituitary gland’s secretion of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH).
TSH is a hormone that stimulates the thyroid gland to produce thyroid hormones.
PTU does not affect the feedback loop between the hypothalamus, pituitary, and thyroid glands.
Choice D is wrong because PTU does not suppress the hypothalamus’s production of thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH).
TRH is a hormone that stimulates the pituitary gland to secrete TSH.
PTU does not affect the feedback loop between the hypothalamus, pituitary, and thyroid glands.
Normal ranges for T are 80 to 220 ng/dL, for T are 4.5 to 11.2 mcg/dL, and for TSH are 0.4 to 4.0 mIU/L.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Guaifenesin is an expectorant that helps thin and loosen mucus in the lungs, making it easier to cough up the sputum. Some possible explanations for the other choices are:
Choice A. Benzonatate is wrong because benzonatate is an antitussive that suppresses the cough reflex by numbing the throat and lungs.
It does not help with sputum production or clearance.
Choice B. Dextromethorphan is wrong because dextromethorphan is also an antitussive that acts on the brain to reduce the urge to cough.
It does not affect the mucus or bronchial secretions.
Choice C. Hydrocodone is wrong because hydrocodone is a narcotic antitussive that works by binding to opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord, blocking pain signals and decreasing cough.
It can cause sedation, respiratory depression, and dependence, and is not indicated for bronchitis.
Normal ranges for sputum production vary depending on the individual and the cause of the cough, but generally range from 10 to 100 mL per day.
Excessive or abnormal sputum may indicate an infection, inflammation, or obstruction of the airways.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today