Which client statement demonstrates understanding of the nurse’s teaching for levothyroxine (Synthroid)?

Choice A rationale:

It is not recommended to take levothyroxine with food as it can interfere with its absorption.

Food, particularly those containing calcium or iron, can bind to levothyroxine in the gastrointestinal tract, reducing the amount of medication that is absorbed into the bloodstream.

This can lead to decreased effectiveness of the medication.

It's generally advised to take levothyroxine on an empty stomach, at least 30-60 minutes before breakfast, to ensure optimal absorption.

Choice B rationale:

Taking levothyroxine first thing in the morning, on an empty stomach, is the most effective way to ensure its absorption and consistent hormone levels throughout the day.

This aligns with the body's natural rhythm of thyroid hormone production, which typically peaks in the morning hours.

Taking the medication consistently at the same time each day helps maintain stable thyroid hormone levels, which is crucial for managing hypothyroidism effectively.

Choice C rationale:

Relief of symptoms with levothyroxine therapy often takes several weeks, not just one week.

It takes time for the body to adjust to the medication and for thyroid hormone levels to reach a therapeutic range.

Patients should be counseled to have patience and continue taking the medication as prescribed, even if they don't experience immediate symptom relief.

They should also be monitored regularly by their healthcare provider to assess their response to treatment and make any necessary adjustments to the dosage.

Choice D rationale:

Doubling the dose of levothyroxine without consulting a healthcare provider is dangerous and can lead to serious health consequences.

Overdosing on levothyroxine can cause hyperthyroidism, which can manifest as rapid heart rate, anxiety, tremors, weight loss, and other health problems.

It's essential to follow the prescribed dosage and not make any changes without the guidance of a healthcare professional.

Choice A rationale:

Erythromycin ointment does not have moisturizing properties. Its primary purpose is to prevent bacterial infection, not to provide moisture to the eyes.

While some ointments may have a slight moisturizing effect, this is not the main reason for using erythromycin ointment in newborns.

If moisture is the primary concern, other products specifically designed to lubricate the eyes would be more appropriate.

Choice B rationale:

Chemical conjunctivitis is typically caused by exposure to irritants such as chlorine in swimming pools or strong chemicals. Erythromycin ointment is not effective in preventing chemical conjunctivitis.

In fact, it could potentially worsen the irritation if used in cases of chemical conjunctivitis.

If chemical conjunctivitis is suspected, flushing the eyes with water or saline solution and seeking medical attention would be the appropriate course of action.

Choice D rationale:

Erythromycin ointment is an antibiotic, but it is not typically used to treat active infections in newborns.

If a newborn has a suspected eye infection, a healthcare provider would likely prescribe a different antibiotic eye drop or ointment that is more effective in treating the specific infection.

However, erythromycin ointment can be used as a prophylactic measure to prevent eye infections, which is why it is commonly administered to newborns shortly after birth.

Choice C rationale:

Erythromycin ointment is primarily used to prevent eye infections in newborns.

It is effective against a variety of bacteria that can cause conjunctivitis, including Neisseria gonorrhoeae (the bacteria that causes gonorrhea) and Chlamydia trachomatis (the bacteria that causes chlamydia).

These bacteria can be passed from the mother to the baby during childbirth, and if left untreated, they can cause serious eye infections that can lead to vision loss.

By applying erythromycin ointment to the newborn's eyes shortly after birth, the risk of these infections can be significantly reduced.