A client is admitted to the hospital for treatment of a simple goiter, and levothyroxine sodium is prescribed. Which symptoms indicate to the nurse that the prescribed dosage is too high for this client?
Bradycardia and constipation.
Muscle cramping and dry, flushed skin.
Palpitations and shortness of breath.
Lethargy and lack of appetite.
The Correct Answer is C
A. Bradycardia and constipation are symptoms associated with hypothyroidism, not hyperthyroidism, indicating that the dosage may be too low rather than too high.
B. Muscle cramping and dry, flushed skin are not typical indicators of levothyroxine overdose and may reflect other underlying issues.
C. Palpitations and shortness of breath are symptoms indicative of hyperthyroidism, suggesting that the levothyroxine dosage may be too high, leading to an increased metabolic rate and cardiovascular stress.
D. Lethargy and lack of appetite are more consistent with under-treatment or hypothyroidism rather than an overdose of levothyroxine, which typically stimulates metabolic activity.
Free Nursing Test Bank
- Free Pharmacology Quiz 1
- Free Medical-Surgical Quiz 2
- Free Fundamentals Quiz 3
- Free Maternal-Newborn Quiz 4
- Free Anatomy and Physiology Quiz 5
- Free Obstetrics and Pediatrics Quiz 6
- Free Fluid and Electrolytes Quiz 7
- Free Community Health Quiz 8
- Free Promoting Health across the Lifespan Quiz 9
- Free Multidimensional Care Quiz 10
View Related questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Administering opioid and non-opioid medications together is an effective pain management strategy for severe pain. This approach can provide better pain relief by targeting different pain pathways and may reduce the total dosage of opioids needed, thus minimizing side effects.
B. Alternating IV and IM analgesic medications is not the best approach; instead, consistent pain management is necessary to keep pain levels under control.
C. Waiting until the pain score reaches 10 before administering the maximum dosage is inappropriate and could lead to inadequate pain control. Pain management should be proactive, not reactive.
D. While educating the client on narcotic dependency is important, it is not the priority intervention in this acute situation where pain control is essential. The immediate focus should be on effective pain relief.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. While frequent mouth care is important, it is not the most immediate concern during an active seizure. The priority is to maintain airway patency and prevent aspiration.
B. Maintaining a semi-Fowler's position may be beneficial, but the client’s level of consciousness and the presence of seizures require more immediate interventions focused on airway management.
C. Ensuring oral suction is available is essential for the client who is unconscious and experiencing seizures, as it allows for rapid intervention to clear secretions and prevent aspiration, which is critical for airway protection.
D. Keeping the room at a comfortable temperature is important for the overall comfort of the client, but it does not directly address the acute management of seizures and airway concerns.