You are caring for a client with hypothyroidism that is taking levothyroxine (Synthroid). The client reports diarrhea, weight loss, palpitations, and heat intolerance. You suspect which of the following adverse effects of this drug?
Hypothyroidism
Thyrotoxicosis
Addison's Disease
Cushing's Disease
The Correct Answer is B
A. Hypothyroidism: This is incorrect. The client is taking levothyroxine (Synthroid) to treat hypothyroidism, and the symptoms described (diarrhea, weight loss, palpitations, heat intolerance) are more likely associated with excess thyroid hormone, not a lack of it.
B. Thyrotoxicosis: This is correct. The symptoms the client is experiencing—diarrhea, weight loss, palpitations, and heat intolerance—are classic signs of thyrotoxicosis, which occurs when there is an excess of thyroid hormone, possibly due to overtreatment with levothyroxine. These symptoms indicate that the thyroid hormone dose might need adjustment.
C. Addison's Disease: This is incorrect. Addison's disease is characterized by insufficient production of adrenal hormones and would typically manifest with symptoms such as fatigue, hypotension, and hyperpigmentation, not diarrhea or heat intolerance.
D. Cushing's Disease: This is incorrect. Cushing's disease is caused by excess cortisol and would typically result in symptoms such as weight gain, high blood pressure, and a round "moon" face, rather than the symptoms described in the question.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Metformin does not typically cause hypoglycemia because it works by decreasing hepatic glucose production and improving insulin sensitivity, not directly lowering blood sugar levels.
B. Somnolence could indicate lactic acidosis, a rare but serious adverse effect of metformin that warrants immediate medical attention.
C. Fluid retention is not a known adverse effect of metformin. Other medications, such as certain thiazolidinediones, are associated with this complication.
D. Hyperglycemia is not a typical adverse effect of metformin; instead, it helps manage blood glucose levels in clients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.
Correct Answer is ["C","D"]
Explanation
A. Glucagon (Glucagen): Glucagon is used to treat severe hypoglycemia and is not indicated for managing EPS or involuntary muscle spasms.
B. Metformin (Glucophage): Metformin is an oral hypoglycemic agent used to manage diabetes mellitus and is not relevant for treating EPS or involuntary muscle spasms.
C. Benztropine (Cogentin): Benztropine is an anticholinergic medication used to treat extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS), such as involuntary muscle spasms, caused by antipsychotic medications like prochlorperazine2.
D. Diphenhydramine (Benadryl): Diphenhydramine is an antihistamine with anticholinergic properties that can also be used to manage EPS, including dystonic reactions2.
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