Describe the symptoms of hypothyroidism

Discussion Topics, Chapter 37, Thyroid and Parathyroid Agents

Discussion Topics

Learning Objective(s)

1. The nurse is caring for Mrs. Smith, a 55-year-old patient who has been started on levothyroxine for hypothyroidism.

a. Describe the symptoms of hypothyroidism.

b. How does levothyroxine help correct hypothyroidism?

c. What are the adverse effects for a woman Mrs. Smith’s age taking levothyroxine?

2. Mrs. Jolon is 60 years old and in excellent overall health. The results of her first bone scan indicate the beginning of postmenopausal osteoporosis. She will begin taking calcitriol (Rocaltrol) daily.

a. What other interventions would you recommend for Mrs. Jolon to improve her bone density and prevent osteoporosis?

b. Explain how osteoporosis occurs and who is at the greatest risk to develop it.