Final answer:
The nurse should discuss bone marrow toxicity and liver toxicity as serious adverse effects of propylthiouracil (PTU) during patient discharge teaching. Patients should be made aware of signs and symptoms such as easy bruising, fatigue, jaundice, and severe abdominal pain to recognize and address potential complications from the medication promptly. The correct answer is option D .
Step-by-step explanation:
When educating a patient about the potential serious adverse effects of antithyroid medications like propylthiouracil (PTU), the nurse should discuss several important risks. These medications are intended to manage conditions such as hyperthyroidism by inhibiting the production of thyroid hormones, but they can have significant side effects. It's critical for patients to be aware of these possible side effects so that they can recognize symptoms and seek medical attention if necessary. The serious adverse effects that should be discussed include:
- Bone marrow toxicity - This results in a decrease in the production of blood cells, which can lead to anemia, increased risk of infection, and impaired clotting.
- Liver toxicity - PTU can cause hepatocellular damage, which can lead to jaundice, liver enlargement, and potentially liver failure if not addressed promptly.
While not listed as options, it's worth noting that kidney damage, increased urination, and joint pain are also potential adverse effects, though they may not be as severe as the aforementioned toxicities. Furthermore, the nurse should inform the patient about the signs and symptoms of these side effects. Regarding bone marrow toxicity, symptoms like fatigue, easy bruising or bleeding, and frequent infections should prompt immediate medical attention. For liver toxicity, the patient should watch for signs such as yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), dark urine, abdominal pain, and severe nausea or vomiting.
The question does not list all severe side effects, such as heart function impairment, prostate enlargement, or testicular atrophy as stated in the reference provided. It's important for healthcare providers to offer comprehensive discharge instructions that cover all known severe side effects, even those not mentioned in the provided list of options, so the patient can fully understand the risks associated with their medication.