Question

The nurse is evaluating a client with hyperthyroidism who is taking

Propylthiouracil (PTU) 100 mg/day in three divided doses for maintenance therapy.
Which of the following statements from the client indicates the desired outcome of the
drug?
1. "I have excess energy throughout the day."
2. "I am able to sleep and rest at night."
3. "I have lost weight since taking this medication."
4. "I do perspire throughout the entire day."

Answer 1

The desired outcome of Propylthiouracil (PTU) is to manage symptoms of hyperthyroidism. The statement indicating this outcome is the ability to sleep and rest at night, which contrasts with symptoms like excessive energy, weight loss, and sweating that signify uncontrolled hyperthyroidism.

Step-by-step explanation:

The patient with hyperthyroidism being treated with Propylthiouracil (PTU) is likely experiencing a decrease in symptoms related to an overactive thyroid gland. The correct answer that indicates the desired outcome of the medication is: "I am able to sleep and rest at night."

This statement suggests that the hyperthyroid symptoms such as difficulty sleeping and anxiety, which are related to an elevated metabolic rate and increased hormone levels, are being well-managed with the PTU treatment. On the contrary, options 1, 3, and 4 (excess energy, weight loss, and excessive sweating) are symptoms typically associated with hyperthyroidism, and their presence would suggest that the treatment is not achieving the desired effect.