Final answer:
A nurse should instruct a thyroidectomy patient to take thyroid hormone replacement at the same time each day and on an empty stomach. Stopping medication if feeling better is not advised, as continued treatment is often necessary.
Step-by-step explanation:
When creating a teaching plan for a client who has had a thyroidectomy and is taking a thyroid hormone replacement, a nurse should include specific instructions to ensure proper hormone levels and maximize the effectiveness of the treatment.
One key instruction is to take the thyroid hormone replacement medication at the same time every day to maintain steady hormone levels in the bloodstream. It is not recommended to stop taking the medication if the patient starts feeling better because thyroid hormones often require lifelong management, and stopping medication could lead to recurrence of symptoms. In addition, the thyroid hormone replacement should be taken on an empty stomach to improve absorption, not with food. By following these guidelines, patients can manage their thyroid hormone levels more effectively after a thyroidectomy.