The nurse teaches a client with newly diagnosed hypothyroidism about the need for thyroid hormone replacement therapy to restore normal thyroid function. Which thyroid preparation is the agent of choice for thyroid hormone replacement therapy?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Levothyroxine (Synthroid) is the agent of choice for thyroid hormone replacement therapy in clients with hypothyroidism. Levothyroxine is a synthetic form of the thyroid hormone T4 and is considered a stable and reliable medication for thyroid replacement. It is usually well tolerated and has a consistent potency, making it easier to adjust the dosage based on the client's thyroid hormone levels. Levothyroxine is typically taken orally once daily on an empty stomach, preferably in the morning, to ensure optimal absorption. In contrast, Methimazole (Tapazole) is used to treat hyperthyroidism by inhibiting the production of thyroid hormones, Livothyronine (Cytomel) is a synthetic form of the thyroid hormone T3, and Thyroid USP dessicated (Thyroid USP) is a natural preparation derived from porcine thyroid glands,