The nurse is caring for a patient with myxedema coma who has an order for levothyroxine intravenous bolus.

The order reads levothyroxine 0.5 mg intravenous bolus at a rate of 100 mcg/min.

The nurse will administer the medication over how many minutes? Fill in the blank with the numerical value only.

Choice A rationale

Estrogen replacement therapy can have various effects on the body but does not significantly impact thyroid diagnostic tests. This information is still relevant for the patient's overall medical care but not directly related to thyroid testing results.

Choice B rationale

Lactose sensitivity is important for dietary considerations but does not affect thyroid diagnostic tests. Documenting dietary restrictions is important for patient care but does not impact the specific diagnostic tests for thyroid function.

Choice C rationale

Anti-seizure medications can affect thyroid function tests, particularly those that affect the metabolism of thyroid hormones. However, the consumption of iodine-rich foods like kelp or seaweed has a more direct and significant impact on thyroid function and diagnostic testing.

Choice D rationale

Frequent consumption of kelp or seaweed, which are high in iodine, can influence thyroid function tests by altering thyroid hormone levels. This dietary habit should be documented and communicated to ensure accurate interpretation of thyroid function test results. .

The correct answer is 5.

Step 1 is 0.5 mg × 1000 mcg ÷ 1 mg = 500 mcg.

Step 2 is 500 mcg ÷ 100 mcg/min = 5 min.