1-A hospitalized client with thyrotoxicosis receives atenolol 50 mg PO daily. Which statement by the
nurse accurately reinforces the client's
... [Show More] understanding of this medication's purpose?
1. "Atenolol is an iodine-based medication that blocks the release of thyroid hormones."
2. "It is used to treat some of the symptoms of hyperthyroidism, such as increased
heart rate."
3. "This drug is radioactive and damages or destroys the thyroid tissue."
4. "This first-line antithyroid drug inhibits the synthesis of thyroid hormones."
Explanation:
Beta-adrenergic blockers (atenolol, metoprolol, and propranolol) are used to relieve some of the
symptoms of thyrotoxicosis (thyroid storm), a complication of hyperthyroidism in which excessive
thyroid hormones are released into the circulation. Beta blockers block the effects of the sympathetic
nervous system and treat symptoms such as tachycardia, hypertension, irritability, tremors, and
nervousness in hyperthyroidism.
(Option 1) Atenolol is not iodine based. Iodine is used to treat thyrotoxicosis or to prepare the client
for a thyroidectomy. In large doses, iodine quickly blocks the release of T4 and T3 from the gland
within hours. In addition, iodine decreases thyroid gland vascularity and is helpful when preparing
the client for a thyroidectomy.
(Option 3) Atenolol does not contain radioactive iodine, the primary treatment for hyperthyroidism. It
damages or destroys the thyroid tissue, therefore limiting thyroid secretion and eventually making the
client hypothyroid.
(Option 4) Propylthiouracil and methimazole (Tapazole) are first-line antithyroid drugs used to inhibit
thyroid hormone synthesis.
Educational objective:
Beta-adrenergic blockers (atenolol, metoprolol, and propranolol) are given to relieve some of the
symptoms of thyrotoxicosis. They block the effects of the sympathetic nervous system and treat
symptoms such as tachycardia, hypertension, irritability, tremors, and nervousness in
hyperthyroidism. [Show Less]