The nurse is evaluating a patient with hyperthyroidism who is taking propylthiouracil (PTU) 100 mg/day for maintenance therapy.
Which statement from the patient indicates the medication therapy is effective?
"I have lost weight since taking this medication.”
"I perspire a lot throughout the entire day.”
"I have excess energy throughout the day.”
"I am able to sleep and rest at night.”
The Correct Answer is D
The correct answer is Choice D.
Choice A rationale
Weight loss in a patient with hyperthyroidism typically occurs due to an increased metabolic rate. Propylthiouracil (PTU) is used to decrease thyroid hormone production. Effective treatment would stabilize metabolism and prevent further weight loss, but not necessarily result in weight gain.
Choice B rationale
Excessive sweating (perspiration) is a common symptom of hyperthyroidism due to an overactive thyroid gland. PTU aims to reduce thyroid hormone levels. Effective treatment should lead to a decrease in sweating as the metabolic rate normalizes.
Choice C rationale
Excess energy and hyperactivity are signs of untreated or inadequately treated hyperthyroidism. PTU reduces the production of thyroid hormones, and effective treatment should alleviate symptoms of excessive energy, resulting in more balanced energy levels.
Choice D rationale
Improved sleep and rest at night indicate effective management of hyperthyroidism. Reduced thyroid hormone levels from PTU help alleviate symptoms such as anxiety, restlessness, and insomnia, allowing the patient to achieve better sleep quality. .
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Dysmenorrhea, or painful menstrual cramps, is not a common side effect of propylthiouracil (PTU). PTU is used to manage hyperthyroidism, and it primarily affects the thyroid gland and related metabolic processes. Dysmenorrhea is typically related to reproductive system disorders and hormonal changes, rather than the medication for thyroid conditions.
Choice B rationale
Constipation is also not a typical symptom associated with propylthiouracil (PTU). PTU's effects are focused on thyroid hormone production, and constipation is more commonly related to other factors such as diet, hydration, and gastrointestinal conditions. Reporting constipation would not be as relevant in the context of PTU therapy.
Choice C rationale
Sore throat is a significant symptom to report as it can indicate agranulocytosis, a rare but severe side effect of propylthiouracil (PTU). Agranulocytosis is a condition where the body has a dangerously low number of white blood cells, which compromises the immune system, making infections more likely and harder to fight off. Early detection and intervention are crucial to prevent serious complications.
Choice D rationale
Increased urine output is not typically associated with propylthiouracil (PTU). While changes in metabolism can occur, increased urine output is more often related to other conditions such as diabetes mellitus or diuretic use. Reporting this symptom would not directly relate to PTU therapy.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
For a client with severe malnutrition, immediate intervention is necessary to address nutritional deficiencies. Inserting a nasogastric tube and beginning enteral feeding is the first step to provide essential nutrients, stabilize the patient's condition, and prevent further complications from malnutrition.
Choice B rationale
Teaching the patient to increase protein intake and to eat more frequently is important but not the immediate priority in a case of severe malnutrition. This can be addressed after initial stabilization and nutritional support.
Choice C rationale
Total parenteral nutrition (TPN) is an option for patients who cannot tolerate enteral feeding, but initiating strict NPO status without first attempting enteral feeding is not the best initial approach. Enteral feeding is generally preferred if the gastrointestinal tract is functional.
Choice D rationale
Rinsing the mouth with alcohol-based mouthwash before meals is not a priority in managing severe malnutrition. It does not address the immediate need for nutritional support and could be harmful if ingested.
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