A nurse is reinforcing teaching with a client who is prescribed levothyroxine for a thyroid disorder. Which of the following information should the nurse include in the teaching?
Expect to discontinue the medication after 1 month.
Take the medication with an aluminum-containing antacid.
Administer the medication 1 hr before breakfast.
Notify the provider if resting pulse is less than 80/min.
The Correct Answer is C
A. Expect to discontinue the medication after 1 month: Levothyroxine therapy is lifelong for most clients with hypothyroidism because it replaces a hormone the body can no longer produce adequately. Stopping it after a month would lead to the return of symptoms and metabolic slowing, making this statement inaccurate for proper teaching.
B. Take the medication with an aluminum-containing antacid: Aluminum antacids interfere with levothyroxine absorption by binding the medication in the gastrointestinal tract. Taking them together can significantly reduce therapeutic effectiveness, so clients are advised to separate them by several hours.
C. Administer the medication 1 hr before breakfast: Levothyroxine is best absorbed on an empty stomach, and giving it one hour before breakfast maximizes consistent absorption. Food can impair absorption, so this timing helps maintain stable thyroid hormone levels and supports effective symptom control.
D. Notify the provider if resting pulse is less than 80/min: A resting pulse below 80 is not a cause for concern and does not indicate toxicity or dosing problems. Elevated pulse, palpitations, or symptoms of hyperthyroidism would be more relevant signs of excessive dosing and should prompt provider notification.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Decrease in weight: A reduction in weight after hemodialysis is expected due to removal of excess fluid. This finding indicates the procedure is effectively managing fluid overload and does not require immediate reporting.
B. Headache: Headaches can indicate rapid shifts in fluid and electrolytes during or after dialysis, sometimes signaling dialysis disequilibrium syndrome or other complications. Prompt reporting allows timely assessment and intervention to prevent worsening neurological symptoms.
C. Fatigue: Mild fatigue is common following hemodialysis due to fluid shifts and changes in blood pressure. This is typically self-limiting and expected, so it does not require urgent reporting.
D. Vibration at fistula site: A palpable thrill or vibration at the arteriovenous fistula is expected and indicates patency. This is a normal finding and does not warrant reporting to the provider.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Skin: A skin examination is recommended annually for all age groups, especially those with increased risk (fair skin, sun exposure, many moles). While important, testicular cancer is the most age-specific concern here.
B. Testicular: Testicular self-examination is recommended for males, especially those aged 15–34, to identify early signs of testicular cancer. Early detection improves treatment outcomes, making this an important preventative measure for an 18-year-old male.
C. Prostate: Routine prostate cancer screening is generally recommended for men starting at age 45–50, depending on risk factors. It is not indicated for an 18-year-old without a significant family history or high-risk conditions.
D. Colorectal: Colorectal cancer screening is usually recommended beginning at age 45 for average-risk adults. It is not indicated for an 18-year-old unless there is a strong family history or genetic predisposition.
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