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 A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Dairy milk is a rich source of calcium, which is essential for patients with hypoparathyroidism. This condition leads to low levels of parathyroid hormone, causing hypocalcemia (low calcium levels in the blood). Including calcium-rich foods like dairy milk helps to manage this deficiency and maintain normal calcium levels.
Choice B rationale
Eggs provide some calcium, but their primary nutritional value is their protein content. While beneficial for overall health, eggs alone are not sufficient to address the calcium needs of patients with hypoparathyroidism, who require higher calcium intake.
Choice C rationale
Spinach contains calcium; however, it also has high levels of oxalates, which can bind to calcium and reduce its absorption in the body. Therefore, relying on spinach for calcium intake is not ideal for patients with hypoparathyroidism, who need to maximize calcium absorption to manage their condition effectively.
Choice D rationale
Green beans are nutritious and provide some calcium, but they are not among the top sources of calcium required for managing hypoparathyroidism. Patients with this condition need higher calcium intake from more concentrated sources like dairy products.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Metformin is used to manage diabetes, primarily by improving insulin sensitivity and reducing glucose production in the liver. Levothyroxine, used to treat hypothyroidism, does not significantly impact the action of metformin. The two medications do not have a direct interaction that decreases metformin's efficacy.
Choice B rationale
Levothyroxine can decrease the action of warfarin by increasing the metabolism of clotting factors in the liver, which may reduce the anticoagulant effect of warfarin. This interaction necessitates closer monitoring of INR (International Normalized Ratio) levels and potential dose adjustments of warfarin to maintain its therapeutic effect.
Choice C rationale
Sertraline is an antidepressant that belongs to the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) class. While it can interact with other medications, levothyroxine does not significantly decrease its action. Therefore, no major adjustments are needed when both drugs are prescribed together.
Choice D rationale
Methylprednisolone, a corticosteroid, is used for its anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressant properties. Levothyroxine does not decrease the action of methylprednisolone. These medications do not have a significant pharmacological interaction that would require adjusting methylprednisolone’s dosage.
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