A client with a history of hypothyroidism has accidentally been taking double her prescribed dose of levothyroxine. Which assessment findings would the nurse expect due to an excess of this medication?
Weight gain and lethargy
Nervousness and tachycardia
Facial puffiness and constipation
Hypotension and intolerance to cold
The Correct Answer is B
A. Weight gain and lethargy: These symptoms are more commonly associated with hypothyroidism or insufficient thyroid hormone levels, not with excess levothyroxine.
B. Nervousness and tachycardia: Excessive levothyroxine can lead to symptoms of hyperthyroidism, such as increased heart rate (tachycardia) and nervousness. These symptoms are consistent with an overdose of levothyroxine.
C. Facial puffiness and constipation: These symptoms are indicative of hypothyroidism, not hyperthyroidism. They would not be expected with an excess of levothyroxine.
D. Hypotension and intolerance to cold: These are symptoms of hypothyroidism and would not typically occur with an excess of levothyroxine. Excess levothyroxine usually causes symptoms of hyperthyroidism.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Levothyroxine replacement test: This test is used to assess the thyroid's response to synthetic thyroid hormone and is not used to differentiate types of hyperthyroidism.
B. Radioactive iodine uptake (RAIU) test: This test measures the thyroid gland's ability to absorb iodine, which helps differentiate Graves' disease (characterized by increased uptake) from other forms of hyperthyroidism, such as thyroiditis (which may show decreased uptake).
C. Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) stimulation test: This test is used to evaluate adrenal function and is not relevant for diagnosing or differentiating forms of hyperthyroidism.
D. Subtotal thyroidectomy: This is a surgical procedure rather than a diagnostic test and would not be used to differentiate between types of hyperthyroidism.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Hypercalcemia and hyperkalemia: These are not typical indicators of parathyroid damage. Hypercalcemia usually results from overactive parathyroid glands, while hyperkalemia is not a common result of parathyroid damage.
B. Muscle twitching and tingling around the mouth: These symptoms are indicative of hypoparathyroidism, a condition that can occur if the parathyroid glands are damaged during thyroid surgery. This results in hypocalcemia (low calcium levels), which causes neuromuscular symptoms like muscle twitching and tingling.
C. Harsh, vibratory breath sounds: These are not related to parathyroid damage. They may suggest respiratory issues, not problems with calcium regulation.
D. Hyperthermia and hypertension: These are not associated with parathyroid damage. They may be related to other post-surgical complications but not specifically to parathyroid gland injury.
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