A nurse is caring for a client who is postoperative following a complete thyroidectomy. Which of the following findings is the priority for the nurse to report to the provider?

Serosanguineous drainage

Client report of incisional pain

Client report of nausea

Muscle twitching

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is D

A) Serosanguineous drainage: While serosanguineous drainage can be expected after surgery, it is typically not alarming unless it significantly increases or changes in character. This finding alone does not indicate an immediate complication that requires urgent attention, making it a lower priority to report compared to other findings.

B) Client report of incisional pain: Postoperative pain is common and expected after a complete thyroidectomy. While the nurse should assess and manage the pain appropriately, this symptom is not unusual and does not signal a critical issue that would necessitate immediate reporting to the healthcare provider.

C) Client report of nausea: Nausea can occur after surgery due to anesthesia or medications. Although it should be addressed and managed, it is not a life-threatening complication. Therefore, this finding does not take priority over other more concerning symptoms.

D) Muscle twitching: Muscle twitching in a postoperative thyroidectomy patient may indicate hypocalcemia, a possible complication due to potential damage to the parathyroid glands during surgery. This condition can lead to severe complications if not addressed promptly, including tetany or seizures. Given the potential seriousness of this finding, it is critical for the nurse to report it to the healthcare provider immediately to ensure appropriate evaluation and intervention.

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Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A) Diuretic: Diuretics are not typically indicated following an ischemic stroke unless there are specific comorbid conditions, such as heart failure or hypertension, that warrant their use. They do not address the primary needs of stroke management.

B) Anticonvulsant: While some stroke patients may require anticonvulsants if they experience seizures, this is not a standard therapy for all ischemic stroke patients upon discharge. The primary focus after an ischemic stroke is often on preventing future strokes rather than seizure control.

C) Opioid analgesic: Opioids are generally not indicated for stroke management and are not a standard part of discharge therapy. Pain management is important, but other medications are prioritized for stroke prevention and rehabilitation.

D) Antithrombotic: Antithrombotic therapy, which includes antiplatelet agents (like aspirin) or anticoagulants, is crucial for preventing further ischemic events. This type of pharmacologic therapy is typically prescribed for patients post-ischemic stroke to reduce the risk of subsequent strokes.

A. "Use a raised toilet seat to maintain your hips above your knees." B. "Apply a heating pad to the operative hip to decrease pain." C. "Move your stronger leg first when using a walker." D. "Twist at the waist when standing from a seated position."

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A) "Use a raised toilet seat to maintain your hips above your knees.": This statement is appropriate because using a raised toilet seat helps prevent hip flexion beyond 90 degrees, which is crucial for clients recovering from a total hip arthroplasty. Maintaining proper positioning helps reduce the risk of dislocation and promotes safe mobility.

B) "Apply a heating pad to the operative hip to decrease pain.": While heat may provide comfort, it is generally advised to avoid applying heat directly to the surgical site, especially in the immediate postoperative period. Cold therapy is often recommended initially to reduce swelling and pain.

C) "Move your stronger leg first when using a walker.": This statement is incorrect for total hip arthroplasty patients. Typically, they should lead with the operated leg when using a walker to maintain proper alignment and safety during ambulation.

D) "Twist at the waist when standing from a seated position.": This instruction is inappropriate as twisting at the waist can increase the risk of dislocating the hip joint. Clients are generally advised to keep their body aligned and avoid twisting movements during the initial recovery period.

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A nurse is caring for a client who is postoperative following a complete thyroidectomy. Which of the following findings is the priority for the nurse to report to the provider?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A nurse is planning the discharge of a client who had an ischemic stroke. The nurse should ensure that the client is discharged with which of the following types of pharmacologic therapy?

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A nurse is providing discharge teaching to a client who is postoperative following a total hip arthroplasty. Which of the following statements should the nurse make?

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

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