A nurse is gathering information from a patient who has undergone a bronchoscopy. Which of the following observations should the nurse report to the healthcare provider?

Choice A rationale

The statement “Stop taking the medication if you feel drowsy” is incorrect. Drowsiness is not a common side effect of levothyroxine, and stopping the medication abruptly can lead to withdrawal symptoms and a rebound of hypothyroid symptoms.

Choice B rationale

The statement “Expect to take this medication for 4 to 6 weeks” is incorrect. Levothyroxine is typically a lifelong therapy for individuals with hypothyroidism, not a short-term treatment.

Choice C rationale

The statement “This medication may cause permanent hair loss” is incorrect. While hair loss can be a side effect of levothyroxine, it is usually temporary and resolves as the body adjusts to the medication.

Choice D rationale

Weighing oneself at the same time every day is a good practice when taking levothyroxine. This can help monitor for changes in weight, which could indicate that the dose of levothyroxine needs adjustment.

Choice A rationale:

Oxygen saturation is not provided in the exhibits, so there is no data available to evaluate if it indicates improvement in the client’s condition. While oxygen saturation is an important indicator of respiratory function and overall oxygenation status, its absence means it cannot be used to assess the client’s progress in this case.

Choice B rationale:

Hemoglobin levels decreased from 14 g/dL on postoperative day 1 to 10.5 g/dL on postoperative day 2. This decline in hemoglobin levels suggests that the client may be experiencing blood loss or anemia, which is not indicative of improvement. Generally, an improvement in the client’s condition would be reflected in stable or increasing hemoglobin levels rather than a decrease.

Choice C rationale:

Mental status is an important indicator of overall recovery and improvement. On postoperative day 2, the client is described as drowsy but alert to voice. This level of responsiveness indicates an improvement in mental status compared to what might be expected immediately post-surgery. A client who is drowsy but still responsive to verbal stimuli is showing signs of regaining consciousness and cognitive function, which is a positive sign of recovery.

Choice D rationale:

Urinary output is not provided in the exhibits, so there is no data available to assess if it indicates improvement. Urinary output is an important measure of kidney function and fluid status, but without specific data, it cannot be used to determine the client’s progress.

Choice E rationale:

The WBC count increased from 7,000/mm³ on day 1 to 8,500/mm³ on day 2, which is within the normal range and indicates a healthy immune response.