The nurse is caring for a client who recently had a dosage increase of prescribed levothyroxine. Which of the assessments following the increase is a priority?
The nurse is caring for a client who recently had a dosage increase of prescribed levothyroxine. Which of the assessments following the increase is a priority?
A. Weight
[18%]
B. Heart rate
[69%]
C. Activity status
[6%]
D. Oral temperature
[7%]
Statistics
Subject/Lesson
Subject
Pharmacology
Lesson
Endocrine
Client Need
Test Plan
Pharmacological and Parenteral Therapies
Related Topic
Adverse Effects/Contraindications/Side Effects/Interactions
Item Type
Item Type
Knowledge/Comprehension
Explanation
Choice B is correct. For a client who has had a dosage increase of levothyroxine, the nurse should assess the client for hyperthyroidism. Signs and symptoms of hyperthyroidism include tachycardia, weight loss, increased temperature, and increased motor activity. Assessing the client's heart rate is a priority because tachydysrhythmias may occur. An elevated heart rate may indicate an adverse reaction to the medication, such as a thyroid hormone overdose.
Choice A is incorrect. Monitoring weight is an important aspect of assessing thyroid function over time. However, it may not be the immediate priority when a client has recently had a dosage increase of levothyroxine.
Choice C is incorrect. While activity status is an essential aspect of overall client care, it is not the immediate priority when assessing the effects of a levothyroxine dosage increase.
Choice D is incorrect. Monitoring oral temperature is important for assessing overall health and detecting fever or signs of infection. However, in the context of a recent levothyroxine dosage increase, it is not the immediate priority.
Related Videos
2 Key Topics
Levothyroxine
19.4 Thyroid & Parathyroid Pharmacology
Additional Info
✓ When a client is prescribed levothyroxine, the nurse should educate the client to:
- Take the medication first thing in the morning.
- Do not take the medication with food or other medications.
- Follow-up with prescribed laboratory tests to monitor thyroid function.
- Report signs of hyperthyroidism as that could indicate that the dose needs to be decreased.
✓ In addition to tachycardia, nurses should assess for other symptoms of hyperthyroidism, such as anxiety, restlessness, sweating, heat intolerance, and palpitations. Monitoring for these symptoms helps in early detection and management of thyroid hormone overdose.
✓ Recognize that thyroid conditions can affect a client's emotional well-being. Provide emotional support and resources if the client is experiencing anxiety or depression related to their condition.
