NURS 2516 Clinical Medications Worksheets

Generic Trade Name Classification Dose Route Time/frequency

Name
levothyroxine Synthroid Hormones 75 mcg PO Q Day
Peak Onset Duration For IV meds, compatibility with IV drips and /or solutions
N/A
1-3 weeks Unknown 1-3weeks Normal Dosage Range
75 mcg/day
Mechanism of action and indications Nursing Implications (what to focus on)
(Why med ordered) Contraindications/warnings/interactions
Principal effect is increasing metabolic rate of body tissues: Hypersensitivity. Recent MI
Promote gluconeogenesis. Increase utilization and
mobilization of glycogen stores, Stimulate protein synthesis, S
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Contain T3 e
(triiodothyronine) and T4 (thyroxine) activity, Replacement in t
deficiency states with restoration of normal hormonal s
balance )

Thyrotoxicosis.
Common side effects
CNS: insomnia, irritability, nervousness, headache,
CV: arrhythmias, tachycardia, angina pectoris, hypotension,
increased blood pressure, increased cardiac output,
GI: cramps, diarrhea, vomiting, levothyroxine tablets: choking,
Interactions with other patient drugs, OTC or herbal
medicines (ask patient specifically)
None For this patient
Nursing Process- Assessment
(Pre-administration assessment)
Assess apical pulse and blood pressure prior to
and periodically during therapy. Assess for
tachyarrhythmias and chest pain
Lab value alterations caused by medicine
Monitor thyroid function studies prior to and during therapy
Be sure to teach the patient the following about this
medication
For patients with difficulty swallowing, levothyroxine tablets can be
crushed and placed in 5-10 mL of water. Try to take the med at
the same time each day. Before breakfast with water.
Assessment Evaluation
Why would you hold or not give this Check after giving
med? Diuresis, weight loss,
tachycardia, chest pain, nervousness, Increased sense of well being,
insomnia, diaphoresis, tremors, weight Increases energy, pulse rate,
loss. These things indicated overdose,
typical treatment is to hold dose for 2-6
appetite, psychomotor activity,
days Normalization of skin texture
and hair, increased T3 and T4
Levels.