A client who exhibits fatigue, lack of energy, constipation, and depression is diagnosed with hypothyroidism. The physician prescribes levothyroxine (Synthroid). To increase the likelihood of medication compliance in the early course of treatment, the nurse plans to alert the client that:
Full therapeutic effect may take 1 to 3 weeks.
Full therapeutic effect may take up to 4 months
Diarrhea as an early side effect diminishes with time.
Weight gain or edema formation is greatest in the first month.
The Correct Answer is A
A. Full therapeutic effect may take 1 to 3 weeks: Levothyroxine (Synthroid) typically starts to show effects within 1 to 3 weeks, but full therapeutic effects may take several weeks to months for symptoms like fatigue and depression to improve.
B. Full therapeutic effect may take up to 4 months: Levothyroxine typically shows initial improvement within 1 to 3 weeks, not 4 months. Full stabilization can take a few months, but this is too long for initial effects.
C. Diarrhea as an early side effect diminishes with time: Levothyroxine does not typically cause diarrhea. Constipation is more common in hypothyroidism, and any gastrointestinal issues should be reported to the provider.
D. Weight gain or edema formation is greatest in the first month: Levothyroxine helps reverse weight gain and edema caused by hypothyroidism. Weight gain is not a side effect of the medication.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Imminent convulsion: While Chvostek's signcan be associated with tetanyor severe hypocalcemia, it is not directly indicative of imminent convulsions. The signs are more suggestive of a calcium imbalance rather than seizures.
B. Hypoparathyroidism: After a total thyroidectomy, the parathyroid glandsmay be inadvertently damaged or removed, leading to hypoparathyroidism. This condition causes hypocalcemia, which can manifest as muscle crampsand a positive Chvostek's sign.
C. Hyperkalemia: Hyperkalemia(high potassium levels) can cause muscle weakness, but it does not cause a positive Chvostek's sign. The symptoms described are more specific to hypocalcemiadue to potential damage to the parathyroid glands.
D. Thyroid storm: Thyroid stormis a rare, life-threatening complication of hyperthyroidism. It is characterized by fever, tachycardia, and altered mental status, but it does not typically cause Chvostek's signor muscle cramps.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1C): The HbA1C test provides an average measure of blood glucose levels over the past 8 to 12 weeks. It reflects the percentage of hemoglobin that has glucose attached to it, giving an indication of long-term blood sugar control.
B. Oral glucose tolerance test: This test measures the body’s response to glucose by checking blood sugar levels after drinking a sugary solution. It does not provide an average of blood glucose over weeks, but rather, it assesses blood glucose levels at specific time points after glucose ingestion.
C. Postprandial glucose test: This test measures blood glucose levels after eating a meal, typically 1 to 2 hours later. It provides information about immediate glucose levels, not long-term glucose control over weeks.
D. Fasting blood sugar (FSBS): This test measures blood glucose levels after fasting for at least 8 hours. It gives a snapshot of current glucose levels but does not provide a measure of glucose control over weeks.
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