A nurse is assessing a client who had a total thyroidectomy 4 hr ago. Which of the following findings should the nurse report?

A. After breaking the top of the ampule to access the medication, the nurse should dispose of the top portion safely in a sharps container to prevent accidental needlestick injuries and ensure proper disposal of sharps waste.

B. Expelling air into the ampule can increase the pressure inside, potentially causing medication to spill out or splatter when the ampule is opened.
C. To open an ampule safely, the nurse should use an ampule opener around the neck of the ampule to protect their hands from potential injury. By breaking off the top with both hands, the nurse can minimize the risk of accidental cuts or lacerations.
D. Withdrawing medication from an ampule requires the use of a needle and syringe. However, some medications may be supplied in ampules with pre-attached needleless systems for withdrawal.

C. Metabolic alkalosis is characterized by an increase in serum bicarbonate levels, resulting in an imbalance in the body's acid-base equilibrium towards alkalinity. Excessive ingestion of antacids, particularly those containing bicarbonate or calcium carbonate, can lead to an excessive accumulation of bicarbonate ions in the body, causing metabolic alkalosis.
A. Excessive ingestion of antacids would not typically cause metabolic acidosis because antacids containing bicarbonate or calcium carbonate actually increase bicarbonate levels, leading to alkalosis rather than acidosis.
B. Respiratory alkalosis occurs due to hyperventilation, leading to a decrease in carbon dioxide levels and subsequent alkalosis. Excessive ingestion of antacids is not typically associated with respiratory alkalosis.

D. Respiratory acidosis occurs due to hypoventilation, leading to an increase in carbon dioxide levels and subsequent acidosis. Excessive ingestion of antacids is not typically associated with respiratory acidosis.