Author Question: The patient is taking Synthroid (a thyroid medication) for hypothyroidism. What should the nurse ... (Read 58 times)

mckennatimberlake · **on:** Jun 25, 2018

The patient is taking Synthroid (a thyroid medication) for hypothyroidism. What should the nurse instruct the patient to do when teaching the patient how to assess her own blood pressure and pulse?

a. Withhold the medication if her blood pressure is above the normal range or if her pulse is over 100 beats per minute.
b. Withhold the medication if her blood pressure is below the normal range or if her pulse is less than 60 beats per minute.
c. Never withhold her medication. Have the patient take it and notify the physician at the next office visit.
d. Withhold her medication only if both her blood pressure and pulse rate are too high.

Question 2

In teaching the patient how to take his own blood pressure, which of the following is true?

a. Blood pressure cuffs that are too small will give a falsely low reading.
b. Blood pressure cuffs that are too large will give a falsely high reading.
c. Electronic blood pressure cuffs are just as accurate as other methods.
d. The cuff should be placed directly over the skin and not over clothing.

Liamb2179 · **Reply #1 on:** Jun 25, 2018

Answer to Question 1

A
Instruct patients taking thyroid medications to withhold medications when blood pressure is above the normal range or when pulse is above 100 beats per minute. Confirm with the prescriber specific guidelines for blood pressure and pulse, document information in the home care record, and provide clear, written instructions for the patient. Beta blockers (e.g., propranolol), calcium channel blockers (e.g., verapamil hydrochloride), or cardiac glycosides (e.g., digoxin) often are withheld if blood pressure is below normal range and/or pulse is below 60 beats per minute.

Answer to Question 2

D
Have clients place the cuff directly on the skin, not over clothing. Blood pressure cuffs that are too small tend to overestimate blood pressure, and cuffs that are too large tend to underestimate blood pressure. Although electronic monitors are easier to use, their accuracy is still a focus of debate.