ATI Clinical Exam Related

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A nurse is providing teaching to a patient who has a new prescription for levothyroxine. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include? What instructions should the nurse include for levothyroxine?

  • A. Take the medication with a meal.
  • B. Take the medication in the morning on an empty stomach.
  • C. Take the medication at bedtime.
  • D. Take the medication with grapefruit juice.
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Take the medication in the morning on an empty stomach. Levothyroxine is best absorbed when taken on an empty stomach, preferably 30 minutes to 1 hour before breakfast. This ensures optimal absorption and effectiveness of the medication. Taking it with a meal (choice A) may interfere with absorption due to food interactions. Taking it at bedtime (choice C) may lead to insomnia or disrupted sleep patterns. Taking it with grapefruit juice (choice D) is not recommended, as grapefruit juice can interfere with the absorption of certain medications. Thus, the most appropriate instruction for the patient is to take levothyroxine in the morning on an empty stomach for optimal efficacy.