Ch. 58 Drugs for Thyroid

A patient has been given instructions about levothyroxine [Synthroid]. Which statement by the patient indicates understanding of these instructions?

"I'll take this medication in the morning so as not to interfere with sleep."

A patient with Graves' disease is treated with iodine-131 therapy. Which statement by the patient would indicate understanding of the treatment's effects?

"I'll tell my doctor if I have fatigue, hair loss, or cold intolerance."

A nurse should consider which diagnostic test a priority to obtain before a patient receives iodine-131?

Beta human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) test

Which statement is the most important for a nurse to make to a patient who is taking methimazole?

"You need to notify your doctor if you have a sore throat and fever."

Which finding in a patient taking levothyroxine [Synthroid] and warfarin [Coumadin] would require follow-up by a nurse?

Excessive bruising

A nurse is caring for a patient with decreased triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4) and elevated thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels. The nurse knows the patient is likely suffering from what?

Hypothyroidism

Which statements about levothyroxine [Synthroid] are correct? (Select all that apply.)

Levothyroxine can be given by IV but is usually taken orally. Levothyroxine brands should not be changed if possible. Levothyroxine can affect the metabolism of other medications.

Which manifestations should a nurse investigate first when monitoring a patient who is taking levothyroxine [Synthroid]?

Tachycardia

The patient reports that she had to switch pharmacies to save money. She noticed that her "thyroid pill" looks different. The nurse anticipates that the healthcare provider will order what?

Thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH)