Final answer:
In planning care for a client with Graves' disease taking methimazole, the nurse should monitor CBC and T3 levels and advise the client to take the medication at the same time every day. Methimazole is used to control thyroid hormone overproduction by inhibiting its synthesis and does not cause iodine toxicity.
Step-by-step explanation:
When a client has a new diagnosis of Graves' disease and a new prescription for methimazole (Tapazole), the nurse should include specific actions in the plan of care. Methimazole is an antithyroid drug used to control the overproduction of thyroid hormones characteristic of Graves' disease. This overproduction increases the client's basal metabolic rate (BMR), which can cause symptoms such as weight loss, increased heart rate, and difficulty sleeping.
The following actions should be included in the care plan:
- Monitor CBC: Regular monitoring of the complete blood count (CBC) is important as methimazole can cause agranulocytosis (a potentially dangerous reduction in the number of white blood cells), which increases the risk of infection.
- Monitor T3: Monitoring levels of triiodothyronine (T3) will help assess the effectiveness of the medication in controlling the overproduction of thyroid hormones.
- Advise the client to take the medication at the same time every day: Consistent dosing is crucial in maintaining steady hormone levels.
It is important to note that the medication should not be limited to a 3-month duration without a healthcare provider's directive and that methimazole does not cause iodine toxicity as an adverse effect. Instead, it works by inhibiting the synthesis of thyroid hormones. However, educating the client about possible side effects, such as rash, gastrointestinal upset, or liver function abnormalities, is crucial.