The clinic nurse evaluates a client's response to levothyroxine after 8 weeks of treatment. What therapeutic responses to the medication should the nurse expect? Select all that apply.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The client's therapeutic response to levothyroxine (Synthroid) is evaluated by resolution of hypothyroidism symptoms. The expected response includes improved well-being with elevated mood (Option B), higher energy levels (Option C), and a heart rate that is within normal limits (Option A). The nurse should consult the health care provider if the heart rate is >100/min, or if the client reports chest pain, nervousness, or tremors; this may indicate that the dose is higher than necessary. Pharmacological therapy manages the symptoms of hypothyroidism, but it takes up to 8 weeks after initiation to see the full therapeutic effect. (Option D) In hypothyroidism, the skin is cool, pale, and rough (due to dryness). These characteristics result from decreased blood flow. A therapeutic response to levothyroxine would be skin that is normal. (Option E) The client experiencing a therapeutic response to levothyroxine would experience weight loss due to the increased metabolic rate. However, the client with untreated hypothyroidism would experience weight gain. Educational objective: The expected therapeutic response to levothyroxine (Synthroid) includes an increased sense of well-being with elevated mood, greater energy levels, and a heart rate within normal limits. It takes up to 8 weeks to see the full effect of pharmacological therapy.

The Clinic Nurse Evaluates a Client's Response to Levothyroxine After