A charge nurse is teaching a group of staff members about hand hygiene. Which of the following information should the nurse include in the teaching?

Correct choices are:

Hoarse voice

A hoarse voice can indicate injury or irritation to the recurrent laryngeal nerve, which is a common complication following thyroid surgery. This nerve is located near the thyroid gland and can be affected during thyroidectomy, leading to vocal cord dysfunction. It's important to report this change in voice to the provider for further evaluation and management.

Tingling around the mouth

Tingling around the mouth can be a sign of hypocalcemia, which is a potential complication after thyroidectomy due to inadvertent damage or removal of the parathyroid glands. These glands regulate calcium levels in the body. Hypocalcemia can present with symptoms such as tingling, numbness, and muscle spasms. Prompt reporting is necessary so that calcium levels can be assessed and appropriate treatment initiated if needed.

Temperature increase from 37.5°C (99.5°F) to 38.6°C (101.5°F) within 1 hour

A rapid increase in temperature postoperatively may indicate infection, such as surgical site infection or systemic infection. This is particularly concerning given the recent surgical procedure. Reporting this change in temperature promptly allows the provider to assess for signs of infection, order appropriate diagnostic tests (such as blood cultures or wound cultures), and initiate timely treatment.

Moderate serosanguinous drainage noted on neck dressing

Serosanguinous drainage (clear to slightly bloody fluid) on the neck dressing is expected post- thyroidectomy, but the amount and nature of drainage should be assessed regularly for any signs of excessive bleeding or infection. Reporting moderate drainage ensures that the provider can assess for complications, such as hematoma formation or wound infection, and intervene as necessary.

A. This instruction is important for safely disposing of needles after use. Safety devices, such as needle safety shields or retractable needles, should be activated immediately after use to prevent accidental needlestick injuries during disposal. Engaging the safety device helps enclose the needle and reduce the risk of subsequent handling injuries.
B. Large-bore needles, which include needles used for procedures such as blood draws or injections, should be disposed of into puncture-resistant sharps containers, not waterproof wastebaskets. Sharps

containers are specifically designed to safely collect needles and prevent accidental needlestick injuries. Using waterproof wastebaskets does not provide adequate protection and increases the risk of injuries.
C. Bending needles, even those without safety devices, is not recommended. Manipulating needles can increase the risk of needlestick injuries. It is safer to dispose of needles intact into sharps containers designed for safe disposal. Sharps containers are puncture-resistant and prevent accidental exposures to used needles.
D. Sharps containers should not be used until they are completely full. They should be replaced and disposed of according to healthcare facility protocols and regulatory guidelines. Overfilling sharps containers increases the risk of needlestick injuries during disposal and handling. It is essential to follow facility policies for timely replacement and disposal of sharps containers to maintain a safe environment.