ATI Learning System PN Medical Surgical Final Quizlet Related

Review ATI Learning System PN Medical Surgical Final Quizlet related questions and content

What instruction should the nurse include in the discharge teaching for a patient with hypothyroidism prescribed levothyroxine?

  • A. Take the medication with meals.
  • B. Take the medication in the morning on an empty stomach.
  • C. Discontinue the medication if you feel better.
  • D. Double the dose if a dose is missed.
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Take the medication in the morning on an empty stomach. Levothyroxine should be taken on an empty stomach, preferably 30 minutes to 1 hour before breakfast, to ensure optimal absorption. Food can interfere with absorption, so taking it with meals (choice A) is not recommended. Discontinuing the medication if feeling better (choice C) is dangerous as it can lead to a relapse of hypothyroidism. Doubling the dose if a dose is missed (choice D) can result in overdose and adverse effects. Therefore, choice B is the best option for optimal effectiveness of levothyroxine therapy.