What is levothyroxine's pharmacologic classification?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Levothyroxine belongs to the pharmacologic classification of thyroid preparations. It is a synthetic form of the thyroid hormone thyroxine (T4) and is used to treat hypothyroidism by supplementing or replacing the body's own thyroid hormone. Levothyroxine works to normalize thyroid hormone levels in the body and help regulate metabolism. It is not a metabolic inhibitor, analgesic, or loop diuretic.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: High threshold mechanoreceptors are responsible for sensing mechanical stimuli such as pressure and touch. When these receptors are activated, one of the body's reactions is to produce analgesia, which refers to the relief of pain or a decreased sensitivity to painful stimuli. This analgesic effect is a protective mechanism that helps reduce the perception of pain in response to potentially harmful mechanical stimuli. Therefore, the reaction of the body to high threshold mechanoreceptors is often associated with analgesia rather than tolerance, withdrawal reflex, inflammation, or suppuration.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Dantrolene sodium is associated with hepatotoxicity, making liver function tests essential for monitoring adverse effects. Elevated liver enzymes (ALT, AST) may indicate liver damage, requiring discontinuation of the drug. Blood urea nitrogen and creatinine are used to assess kidney function, while triglyceride levels are unrelated to dantrolene's primary adverse effects. Regular monitoring of liver function is critical to ensure patient safety during treatment.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Lithium, used for bipolar disorder, is a salt processed by the kidneys, which also regulate sodium. Low sodium levels (e.g., from reduced table salt intake) cause the kidneys to conserve lithium instead, increasing serum levels and risking toxicity—symptoms like tremors, confusion, or seizures. Choice B correctly explains this mechanism: adequate sodium intake (via table salt) prevents lithium retention, maintaining therapeutic levels. Choice A confuses the issue with sea salt, which isn't clinically distinct here. Choice C inaccurately suggests adjusting salt reactively, risking toxicity first. Choice D downplays salt's role compared to hydration, which, while important, doesn't negate sodium's necessity. The nurse must clarify that consistent sodium intake is essential for lithium's safe metabolism, making choice B the most accurate and educational response.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Patients with peptic ulcers should stop taking NSAIDs. NSAIDs, which stands for nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, can worsen peptic ulcers by increasing the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding and ulcer formation. NSAIDs work by inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis, which can lead to a decrease in the protective mucus production in the stomach lining, allowing gastric acid to damage the mucosa and exacerbate peptic ulcers. Therefore, it is crucial for patients with peptic ulcers to avoid NSAIDs to prevent further damage to the gastrointestinal tract.