A nurse is caring for a client who is taking levothyroxine for hypothyroidism. Which of the following indicates the client's dose is too high?
Correct Answer:
Tachycardia.
Rationale:
When the dose of levothyroxine is too high, it can lead to symptoms of hyperthyroidism, as the body has an excess of thyroid hormone. Common signs include:
Tachycardia (fast heart rate).
Increased blood pressure.
Nervousness or irritability.
Heat intolerance.
Diarrhea.
These symptoms occur because the thyroid hormone speeds up the body's metabolism excessively.