Which of the following statements should the nurse include in the postoperative teaching for a patient diagnosed with thyroid cancer who had a thyroidectomy and is receiving levothyroxine?
Regular follow-up appointments and blood tests are necessary to monitor your thyroid hormone levels.
You may experience weight gain as a side effect of levothyroxine.
You should take your levothyroxine medication with food.
It is important to avoid any dietary restrictions while taking levothyroxine.
The Correct Answer is A
A. After a thyroidectomy and when receiving levothyroxine, it is essential for the patient to have regular follow-ups and blood tests (specifically TSH and free T4 levels) to ensure the dosage of levothyroxine is appropriate and to monitor for any complications related to the thyroid hormone levels.
B. Levothyroxine is a thyroid hormone replacement and, when taken appropriately, should help maintain a normal metabolism, potentially preventing weight gain. Weight changes can occur, but they are more likely to be due to improper dosing or underlying issues rather than a direct side effect of the medication itself.
C. Levothyroxine should be taken on an empty stomach, typically 30 to 60 minutes before breakfast, to ensure optimal absorption. Taking it with food can reduce its effectiveness.
D. While there are no strict dietary restrictions for most patients on levothyroxine, certain foods (such as those high in soy or fiber) can interfere with absorption if consumed around the time of taking the medication. Patients should be informed to take levothyroxine consistently and to wait a while before consuming certain foods that may impact absorption.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. This is a valid consideration. Patients receiving radioactive iodine may emit radiation, so placing them in a private room can help minimize exposure to family members and staff. Isolation may be more strictly enforced based on the dose administered and hospital protocols.
B. This is generally not required for radioactive iodine treatment. Patients are often advised to have a low-iodine diet in the weeks leading up to treatment, but complete fasting for 24 hours prior is not standard practice. Clear instructions from the healthcare provider should be followed regarding diet.
C. This is typically not a requirement. While some patients may be advised to avoid strenuous activities immediately after treatment, there is no strict guideline stating that all physical activity must be avoided for 72 hours. Patients are usually encouraged to follow normal activities while being mindful of minimizing close contact with others.
D. This statement is generally incorrect. While certain medications may need to be adjusted or stopped before radioactive iodine treatment (for instance, thyroid medications), it’s not a blanket recommendation to stop all medications for a week. Patients should consult with their healthcare provider for personalized advice regarding their specific medications.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Ascites is a condition where excess fluid accumulates in the abdominal cavity. It is a common finding in advanced-stage ovarian cancer as the cancer can spread to the abdominal organs and lymph nodes, leading to fluid buildup.
B. Chest pressure is not a typical symptom of advanced-stage ovarian cancer. It might be associated with other conditions, such as heart disease or lung problems.
C. Painful urination is not a common symptom of advanced-stage ovarian cancer. It might be associated with other conditions, such as urinary tract infections or bladder problems.
D. Excessive flatus is not a typical symptom of advanced-stage ovarian cancer. It might be associated with other gastrointestinal conditions.
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