A nurse is caring for a client who has a prescription for levothyroxine.
Which of the following laboratory tests should the nurse monitor?
Serum potassium
Triiodothyronine
Blood urea nitrogen
Prothrombin time
The Correct Answer is B
Explanation B.Triiodothyronine
Levothyroxine is a synthetic form of the thyroid hormone thyroxine (T4). It is converted to triiodothyronine (T3), the active form of the thyroid hormone, in the body. Monitoring the levels of triiodothyronine (T3) can help assess the effectiveness of levothyroxine therapy and ensure that the client's thyroid hormone levels are within the desired therapeutic range.
Serum potassium levels in (option A) should not be monitored because they are not directly affected by levothyroxine. However, imbalances in electrolytes can occur in some individuals with thyroid disorders. Electrolyte levels may be monitored, but it is not the primary focus of monitoring for levothyroxine therapy.
Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) in (option C) should not be monitored because it is a test used to assess kidney function and is not directly related to monitoring levothyroxine therapy.
Prothrombin time (PT) in (option D) should not be monitored because it is a test used to evaluate the clotting function of the blood and is not specifically related to monitoring levothyroxine therapy.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Potassium is an essential electrolyte that plays a crucial role in various bodily functions. However, for individuals with an electrolyte imbalance, it is often necessary to limit their potassium intake. Among the options provided, baked chicken breast is the lowest in potassium. Cantaloupe is relatively high in potassium. A cup of diced cantaloupe contains about 430 mg of potassium.
Sweet potatoes are known for their high potassium content. A medium-sized sweet potato with skin contains about 542 mg of potassium.
Orange juice also contains a moderate amount of potassium. An 8-ounce serving of orange juice typically contains around 450 mg of potassium.
Chicken breast is naturally low in potassium compared to fruits and vegetables. It contains about 260 mg of potassium per 4-ounce serving.
Therefore, among the given options, the baked chicken breast is the lowest in potassium and would be the most suitable choice for a client with an electrolyte imbalance requiring a low-potassium diet.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Explanation
C. Epistaxis
Heparin is an anticoagulant medication used to prevent blood clot formation. One of the potential adverse effects of heparin therapy is bleeding. Epistaxis, or nosebleeds, can be a sign of abnormal bleeding and should be reported to the provider for further evaluation and adjustment of the treatment plan if necessary.
Weight gain in (option A) is not a common adverse effect of heparin. Weight gain can be caused by various factors, but it is not directly related to heparin administration.
Bradycardia (slow heart rate) in (option B) is not a common adverse effect of heparin. Bradycardia can be caused by other factors unrelated to heparin therapy and should be evaluated separately.
Anorexia (loss of appetite) in (option D) is not typically associated with heparin therapy. Anorexia can have various causes, but it is not directly linked to heparin administration.
Therefore, the nurse should report the occurrence of epistaxis (option C) to the healthcare provider as a potential adverse effect of heparin therapy in the client.
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