Question

A client was recently prescribed levothyroxine, but is unsure of the instructions on how to take the medication. The nurse is providing the client with instructions on how the medication should be taken. The nurse determines that the teaching was effective when the client states:

A. "I need to take this medication every day, but thankfully it doesn't matter when I take it."
B. "This medication should help with my hyperthyroidism."
C. "I understand that it is best to take this medication the same time every day and on an empty stomach."
D. "It isn't likely that this medication will interact with any of my other medications since it is a natural hormone to my body."

Answer 1

The nurse determines the teaching was effective when the client states that levothyroxine should be taken the same time every day on an empty stomach. It's meant for hypothyroidism treatment and the precise timing of the medication enhances its absorption and efficacy.

Step-by-step explanation:

The correct answer to the question on how a client should take levothyroxine is C: "I understand that it is best to take this medication the same time every day and on an empty stomach." It is essential for the effectiveness and absorption of levothyroxine that it be taken on an empty stomach and at the same time each day to maintain stable hormone levels. This consistency helps the medication work correctly and controls the symptoms of hypothyroidism more effectively.

Regarding option B, levothyroxine is actually used to treat hypothyroidism, not hyperthyroidism. As for options A and D, they contain misconceptions. The time of day and food intake can affect how well the medication is absorbed, and it can interact with other medications despite being a synthetic version of a naturally occurring hormone in the body.