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Which symptoms indicate that the levothyroxine sodium (Synthroid) dosage may be too high for a client?

  1. Bradycardia and constipation

  2. Lethargy and lack of appetite

  3. Muscle cramping and dry, flushed skin

  4. Palpitations and shortness of breath

The correct answer is: Palpitations and shortness of breath

The presence of palpitations and shortness of breath suggests that the dosage of levothyroxine sodium (Synthroid) may be excessive for the client. Levothyroxine is a synthetic thyroid hormone used to treat hypothyroidism. When the dosage is too high, it can lead to symptoms of hyperthyroidism, as the body may receive more thyroid hormones than it can handle. Palpitations indicate an increased heart rate or irregular heart rhythms, which are common signs of excess thyroid hormone activity. Shortness of breath can result from increased metabolic activity and demands on the cardiovascular and respiratory systems that can occur due to elevated thyroid levels. Overall, these symptoms highlight a state of overstimulation associated with hyperthyroidism, signaling the need for dosage adjustment.