The nurse is caring for a client newly diagnosed with hypothyroidism. The client also takes theophylline to control asthma symptoms.
What change may need to be made to the client’s theophylline dose?
Decrease theophylline dosage immediately.
Decrease theophylline dose when normal thyroid function returns.
Discontinue the client’s theophylline.
Increase theophylline dosage immediately.
The Correct Answer is B
This is because hypothyroidism can reduce the metabolism and clearance of theophylline, leading to higher serum levels and increased risk of toxicity. Therefore, when the thyroid function is restored by levothyroxine or liothyronine, the dose of theophylline may need to be lowered to avoid excessive effects.
Choice A is wrong because decreasing theophylline dosage immediately may result in suboptimal control of asthma symptoms.
The dose adjustment should be based on serum theophylline levels and clinical response.
Choice C is wrong because discontinuing the client’s theophylline may cause worsening of asthma and potentially life-threatening complications.
Theophylline is an important bronchodilator that should not be stopped abruptly without medical supervision.
Choice D is wrong because increasing theophylline dosage immediately may cause overdose and adverse effects such as nausea, vomiting, headache, tachycardia, arrhythmias, seizures and even death.
The dose of theophylline should be carefully titrated according to serum levels and clinical response.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
This is because a nutritious diet provides adequate fiber and nutrients for the GI tract, avoiding alcohol prevents dehydration and irritation of the GI mucosa, and cautious use of laxatives prevents dependency and electrolyte imbalance.
Choice A is wrong because caffeine can stimulate the GI motility and cause diarrhea or cramps.
Choice C is wrong because some prescription medications can affect the GI function, such as antibiotics, opioids, or antacids.
Increased fluid intake is good, but not enough to promote optimal GI function.
Vigorous exercise can also cause GI distress or dehydration.
Choice D is wrong because adequate fluid intake is essential for preventing constipation and maintaining hydration.
Exercise can also help with bowel movements and overall health.
Normal ranges for GI function vary depending on the individual, but generally, a person should have at least one bowel movement every 3 days and no more than 3 bowel movements per day.
The stool should be soft, formed, and easy to pass.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
This is because levothyroxine can increase the anticoagulant effect of oral anticoagulants and increase the risk of bleeding. The nurse should check the client’s prothrombin time and international normalized ratio (INR) regularly and report any abnormal values to the prescriber.
Choice B is wrong because hypothyroidism does not increase the risk of infection.
Choice C is wrong because hypothyroidism does not affect the level of consciousness unless it is severe and causes myxedema coma.
Choice D is wrong because hypothyroidism does not cause electrolyte imbalances.
Normal ranges for prothrombin time are 11 to 13.5 seconds and for INR are 0.8 to 1.22.
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