When evaluating the expected outcome for a hypothyroid elderly patient placed on levothyroxine,the nurse practitioner will:

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The American Thyroid Association recommends assessing TSH levels in 4-6 weeks after initiation or dose adjustment of levothyroxine. This allows enough time for the medication to achieve steady-state levels and for the TSH to reflect any changes in thyroid hormone levels. Option A is too frequent for TSH assessment, and option C relies solely on patient-reported symptoms which may not reliably reflect thyroid function. Option D is not a typical management approach unless there are significant adverse effects or lab abnormalities.

When Evaluating the Expected Outcome for a Hypothyroid Elderly Patient