Adrianne Bazo

11-18-08

Clinical Medications Worksheets

Generic Trade Classification Dose Route Time/frequency
Name Name hormones 100 mcg PO qD
levothyroxine Synthroid
Peak Onset Duration Normal dose range
1-3 wk unknown 1-3 wk Usual maintenance dose is 75-125 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 Hypersensitivity
tissues:
Promote gluconeogenesis, Increase utilization and
mobilization of glycogen stores, Stimulate protein Common side effects
synthesis, Promote cell growth and differentiation insomnia, irritability, nervousness, arrhythmias, tachycardia,
hypothyroidism weight loss

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
Monitor blood and urine glucose in diabetic patients. Insulin or
oral hypoglycemic dose may need to be increased
Be sure to teach the patient the following about this
medication
Advise patient to notify health care professional if headache,
nervousness, diarrhea, excessive sweating, heat intolerance,
chest pain, increased pulse rate, palpitations, weight loss >2
lb/wk, or any unusual symptoms occur. Teach correct
technique for checking pulse. Therapy is lifelong
Assessment Evaluation
Why would you hold or not give Check after giving
this med? Resolution of symptoms of
Dose should be withheld and health care hypothyroidism,
professional notified if resting pulse Diuresis,Weight loss,
>100 bpm. Increased energy, pulse rate,
s/s of toxicity- manifested as appetite, psychomotor activity,
hyperthyroidism- ↑HR, chest pain, increased T3 and T4 levels
nervousness, insomnia, diaphioresis,
tremors, wt. loss