A Patient Is Prescribed Levothyroxine (Synthroid)for Hypothyroidism

question 30

Multiple Choice

A patient is prescribed levothyroxine (Synthroid) for hypothyroidism.Which statement should the nurse include when teaching the patient about this medication?

• A) "If you do not take your medication, you will retain water and begin to see swelling in your feet and legs."
• B) "Cushing's syndrome is a complication of severe hypothyroidism, so you need to take this medication regularly."
• C) "Thyrotoxicosis results from too little thyroid hormone, so you should monitor your temperature every day."
• D) "Worsening hypothyroidism can result in a condition called myxedema coma, so it is important to take this medication."

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Definitions:

Constipation

A condition characterized by difficulty in emptying the bowels, often associated with hardened feces.

Laxatives

Medications or substances that are used to stimulate bowel movements, often used to treat constipation.

Daily Bowel Movements

The regular passage of stools each day as a part of the digestive process.

Nursing Diagnosis

An assessment concerning the reactions of an individual, family, or community to real or possible health issues or life events, which forms the foundation for choosing nursing actions.