A postoperative total thyroidectomy patient is started on levothyroxine (Synthroid) daily. Which information will the nurse include in discharge teaching? (Select all that apply.)

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Patients who have undergone total thyroidectomy require lifelong thyroid hormone replacement therapy with levothyroxine (Synthroid). Therefore, close follow-up with a healthcare provider is important to ensure an appropriate dose is maintained. Palpitations or tachycardia may indicate an overactive thyroid, so the patient should notify their provider if they experience these symptoms. A variation in emotions and personality can occur as the patient adjusts to their new medication, so the nurse should provide education on this to prevent patient anxiety. Synthroid should not be stopped unless advised by a healthcare provider, and it should not be tapered unless the patient's thyroid levels have stabilized and require a dose adjustment.

A Postoperative Total Thyroidectomy Patient Is Started on Levothyroxine (Synthroid)