A nurse is preparing to administer levothyroxine 100 mcg PO to a client who has hypothyroidism.

Available is levothyroxine 50 mcg tablets.

How many tablets should the nurse administer?
(Round the answer to the nearest whole number. Use a leading zero if it applies. Do not use a trailing zero.)

Choice A rationale:
Using a follow-up rinse with a flavored drink is a common practice when administering oral medication to a preschool child. This helps mask the taste of the medication, making it more palatable for the child.
Choice B rationale:
Placing the capsule or tablet under the tongue (sublingual administration) is not typically recommended for preschool children due to the risk of choking.
Choice C rationale:
Supporting the child’s head and holding the child in the lap can be helpful but is not a specific guideline for administering oral medication.
Choice D rationale:
Using chewable tablets can be an option if the child’s teeth are not loose. However, it’s not a general guideline as not all medications come in chewable form.

Choice A rationale:
The term “Aged” generally refers to individuals who are in the late stages of life, often those over 652. This does not apply to a 40-year-old patient.
Choice B rationale:
“Elderly” is a term often used to refer to individuals who are 65 years of age or older. A 40-year-old patient does not fall into this category.
Choice C rationale:
A 40-year-old patient is considered an “Adult”. According to Erikson’s stages of development, the stage of “generativity vs. stagnation” begins at age 40 and lasts until age 653.
Choice D rationale:
“Older adult” typically refers to individuals who are in their late 60s and beyond. This does not apply to a 40-year-old patient.