When educating the client about the risk for hypothyroidism with propylthiouracil, what signs and symptoms will the nurse include? SELECT ALL THAT APPLY.

Choice A reason: This statement is true. The nurse should include weight gain as a sign of hypothyroidism, which is a condition where the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormones. Thyroid hormones regulate the metabolism and energy expenditure of the body. When the thyroid hormones are low, the metabolism slows down and the body tends to store more fat.

Choice B reason: This statement is false. The nurse should not include diarrhea as a sign of hypothyroidism, as diarrhea is more common with hyperthyroidism, which is a condition where the thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormones. When the thyroid hormones are high, the metabolism speeds up and the bowel movements become more frequent and loose.

Choice C reason: This statement is true. The nurse should include confusion as a sign of hypothyroidism, as confusion is caused by the lack of thyroid hormones in the brain. Thyroid hormones are essential for the normal function and development of the nervous system. When the thyroid hormones are low, the mental processes become sluggish and impaired.

Choice D reason: This statement is true. The nurse should include bradycardia as a sign of hypothyroidism, as bradycardia is a slow heart rate, usually below 60 beats per minute. Thyroid hormones affect the cardiac output and contractility of the heart. When the thyroid hormones are low, the heart rate and blood pressure decrease.

Choice E reason: This statement is true. The nurse should include cold intolerance as a sign of hypothyroidism, as cold intolerance is a reduced ability to maintain body temperature in cold environments. Thyroid hormones are involved in the thermoregulation of the body. When the thyroid hormones are low, the body produces less heat and shivers more.