ATI Pediatrics Test Bank Related

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A client with Hashimoto's thyroiditis and a history of two myocardial infarctions and coronary artery disease is to receive levothyroxine (Synthroid). Because of the client's cardiac history, the nurse would expect that the client's initial dose for the thyroid replacement would be which of the following?

  • A. 25 g/day, initially
  • B. Delayed until after thyroid surgery
  • C. 100 g/day, initially
  • D. Initiated before thyroid surgery
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In a client with a history of two myocardial infarctions and coronary artery disease, initiating levothyroxine therapy with a low starting dose of 25 mcg/day is recommended. Thyroid hormone replacement therapy can potentially worsen underlying cardiac conditions, so a cautious approach is necessary. The dose may be gradually titrated upwards based on thyroid function tests and the client's response. Delaying treatment until after thyroid surgery (option B) is not necessary in this scenario if the client requires thyroid hormone replacement. Initiating levothyroxine before thyroid surgery (option D) is not relevant to the given clinical situation. Starting with a higher dose of 100 mcg/day (option C) may pose a higher risk of cardiac complications in this client with a cardiac history.