a nurse is providing teaching to a client who is starting a new prescription for levothyroxine which of the following instructions should the nurse in

ATI RN

ATI Proctored Pharmacology Test

1. A client is starting a new prescription for levothyroxine. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

A. Take the medication at bedtime.
B. Take the medication with food.
C. Take the medication first thing in the morning on an empty stomach.
D. Take the medication with a full glass of milk.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct instruction for taking levothyroxine is to take the medication first thing in the morning on an empty stomach. This timing is important for optimal absorption of the medication. Taking levothyroxine with food or at bedtime can interfere with its absorption. Milk and other foods, as well as certain medications, can reduce the effectiveness of levothyroxine by interfering with its absorption, so it should be taken separately from these items. Therefore, the correct choice is to take the medication first thing in the morning on an empty stomach.

2. When a client is prescribed hydrochlorothiazide, what adverse effect should they monitor for as instructed by the nurse?

A. Hyponatremia
B. Ototoxicity
C. Hypoglycemia
D. Hyperkalemia

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Hyponatremia is a critical adverse effect associated with hydrochlorothiazide use. This medication is a diuretic that can lead to excessive loss of sodium and water from the body, potentially causing low sodium levels and resulting in hyponatremia. Monitoring for signs and symptoms of hyponatremia, such as confusion, headache, weakness, and muscle cramps, is essential to prevent serious complications. Ototoxicity (choice B) is not a common adverse effect of hydrochlorothiazide. Hypoglycemia (choice C) and hyperkalemia (choice D) are also not typically associated with hydrochlorothiazide use.

3. What is the therapeutic classification of Furosemide?

A. Antidiuretics
B. Diuretics
C. Anticonvulsants
D. Antidotes

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Furosemide is classified therapeutically as a diuretic. Diuretics are medications used to promote diuresis, which helps the body get rid of excess salt and water. Furosemide is commonly prescribed to treat conditions such as fluid retention and swelling (edema) associated with congestive heart failure, liver disease, or kidney disorders. Choice A, Antidiuretics, is incorrect as Furosemide acts as a diuretic, promoting the production of urine. Choice C, Anticonvulsants, is also incorrect as Furosemide is not used to treat seizures. Choice D, Antidotes, is incorrect as Furosemide is not an antidote but rather a medication used to treat conditions related to fluid retention.

4. What should you assess for in a patient who is on Valproate?

A. Suicidal thoughts
B. Monitor for seizures
C. Bipolar disorder
D. Migraines

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Suicidal thoughts. When a patient is prescribed Valproate, it is crucial to assess for suicidal thoughts as it is a serious side effect associated with this medication. Valproate has been linked to an increased risk of suicidal ideation and behavior, particularly in patients with epilepsy or bipolar disorder. Monitoring for signs of depression or changes in behavior is essential to ensure patient safety and well-being. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because while monitoring for seizures, managing bipolar disorder, and treating migraines are also important considerations when a patient is on Valproate, assessing for suicidal thoughts takes priority due to the serious nature of this potential side effect.

5. A client is starting therapy with Metformin. Which of the following instructions should be included by the healthcare provider?

A. Take this medication with your first bite of food.
B. Take this medication on an empty stomach.
C. Take this medication before bedtime.
D. Take this medication every other day.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'Take this medication with your first bite of food.' Metformin should be taken with meals to reduce gastrointestinal side effects and ensure better absorption. By taking the medication with the first bite of food, the client can help minimize potential stomach upset and improve the drug's effectiveness. Choice B is incorrect because taking Metformin on an empty stomach can increase the risk of gastrointestinal side effects. Choice C is incorrect as there is no specific recommendation to take Metformin before bedtime. Choice D is incorrect because Metformin is typically taken daily, not every other day, as prescribed by the healthcare provider.