The nurse is providing discharge instructions to a patient with Graves' disease who has a prescription for propylthiouracil (PTU) 300 mg orally every 8 hours.
Which symptom will the nurse teach the patient to report to the healthcare provider?
Dysmenorrhea.
Constipation.
Sore throat.
Increased urine output.
The Correct Answer is C
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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Wearing a dosimeter badge is essential for healthcare workers handling radioactive materials to monitor exposure, but it is not a standard practice for handling chemotherapy, which is typically not radioactive. Chemotherapy drugs are cytotoxic and require different safety measures, such as PPE.
Choice B rationale
While protecting patients during radiation therapy with a lead apron is necessary, it is not applicable for chemotherapy infusions. Chemotherapy involves the administration of cytotoxic drugs, not ionizing radiation, so protective measures focus on preventing exposure to these chemicals rather than shielding from radiation.
Choice C rationale
The nurse must wear personal protective equipment (PPE), including gloves and a gown, when handling chemotherapy to prevent exposure to these toxic drugs. PPE is crucial to protect healthcare workers from accidental spills, splashes, and skin contact with the chemotherapy agents, which can be harmful.
Choice D rationale
Disposal of chemotherapy waste should follow specific guidelines to prevent contamination and exposure. Sharps containers are for sharp objects like needles and blades, not for all chemotherapy waste. Chemotherapy waste should be disposed of in designated containers that comply with hazardous waste regulations to ensure safe handling and disposal.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Regular insulin 10 units subcutaneous is used to lower blood glucose levels in hyperkalemia. While insulin can help shift potassium into cells, it is not indicated for hypercalcemia or hyperparathyroidism. Regular insulin would not address the elevated calcium levels in this patient.
Choice B rationale
Chlorothiazide 750 mg intravenous is a diuretic that can increase calcium reabsorption in the kidneys, potentially worsening hypercalcemia. It is contraindicated in hyperparathyroidism because it can exacerbate the high calcium levels and associated symptoms.
Choice C rationale
Calcitonin 300 international units subcutaneous is the correct choice for this patient. Calcitonin inhibits osteoclast activity, reducing bone resorption and lowering serum calcium levels. It provides rapid but short-term control of hypercalcemia, which is crucial for managing acute symptoms of hyperparathyroidism.
Choice D rationale
Calcitriol 0.75 mcg orally is an active form of vitamin D that increases calcium absorption in the gut. It is used to manage hypocalcemia, not hypercalcemia. Administering calcitriol would further elevate the already high calcium levels, worsening the patient's condition.
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