COURSE TASK 5

Connie, age 28, has been hospitalized for 2 days for symptoms leading to the diagnosis
of primary hypothyroidism.

1. What tests does the nurse know will assist with the confirmation of
diagnosis of primary hypothyroidism for Connie?
Serum TSH, T3 resin uptake test, immuno essay for anti-thyroid antibodies,
radioactive iodine uptake, thyroid scan, radioscan, or scintiscan may be
performed to Connie.

2. What clinical manifestations that are consistent with Connie’s diagnosis

should be monitored?
It's possible that Connie will experience extreme weariness, hair loss, brittle
nails, dry skin, and numbness and tingling in your fingers. Hoarseness,
menstruation irregularities, weight gain, or other clinical symptoms are all
possible.

3. What comfort measures can the nurse include in Connie’s care?

Encourage her to take regular breaks during the day, provide her extra blankets
to keep her warm, and use a cleansing lotion instead of soap on her skin.

4. Connie is ordered Synthroid 0.125 mg orally daily. What education should

the nurse provide?
Connie has to be told that over-the-counter and prescription medications interact
with Synthroid, and that she should exercise caution when taking anything.
When patients use magnesium-containing anti-acids, their thyroid hormone
absorption is reduced.