A nurse is teaching a patient who will begin taking methimazole ...

[NguyenJ]

A nurse is teaching a patient who will begin taking methimazole (Tapazole) for Graves' disease about the medication. Which statement by the patient indicates understanding of the teaching?
 
  a. Because of the risk for liver toxicity, I will need frequent liver function tests.
  b. I should report a sore throat or fever to my provider if either occurs.
  c. I will need a complete blood count every few months.
  d. It is safe to get pregnant while taking this medication.

Question 2

The nurse prepares a patient with Graves' disease for radioactive iodine (131I) therapy. Which statement made by the patient best demonstrates understanding of 131I therapy?
 
  a. I will have to isolate myself from my family for 1 week so that I don't expose them to radiation.
  b. This drug will be taken up by the thyroid gland and will destroy the cells to reduce my hyperthyroidism.
  c. This drug will help reduce my cold intolerance and weight gain.
  d. I will need to take this drug on a daily basis for at least 1 year.

[mcarey591]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: B
Agranulocytosis is rare but can occur with methimazole, so patients should report signs of infection, such as a sore throat or fever. Liver toxicity is not a side effect, so liver function tests are not indicated. Because agranulocytosis often develops rapidly, periodic blood counts do not guarantee early detection. Methimazole is contraindicated in the first trimester of pregnancy.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: B
Iodine-131 can be used to destroy thyroid tissue in patients with hyperthyroidism; no further teaching is necessary. The patient does not need to isolate himself from others. The treatment will not reduce intolerance to cold, nor will it affect weight gain. The patient will not need the treatment daily.

[NguyenJ]

TY

[mcarey591]

You're welcome