18. Radioactive iodine (131I) is administered to a client with hyperthyroidism to:
. Limit thyroid hormone absorption by the sympathetic nervous system.
. Limit secretion of thyroid hormone by destroying thyroid tissue.
. Stimulate circulating thyroid hormone for use by the body.
. Reduce the symptoms of CHF caused by excess thyroid hormone.
Test-Taking Tip
Consider which option would stop the problem—destroy the cause.
Content Area: Adult Health, Endocrine; Integrated Process: Nursing Process, Planning; Cognitive Level: Comprehension; Client Need/Subneed: Physiological Integrity/Reduction of Risk Potential/Therapeutic Procedures
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Answer 1 is incorrect because the goal of therapy with radioactive iodine is to destroy thyroid tissue, not limit absorption. Answer 2 is correct because the radioactive iodine destroys the overactive thyroid tissue that is causing hyperthyroidism and produces a hypothyroid state. Answer 3 is incorrect because radioactive iodine destroys the thyroid tissue, reducing the amount of circulating thyroid hormone. Answer 4 is incorrect because the action of radioactive iodine is to destroy the thyroid tissue. Correcting hyperthyroidism will minimize the cardiac effects that may lead to CHF if there has been no permanent myocardial damage.