A nurse is providing teaching to a client who has a new diagnosis of type 2 diabetes mellitus. The nurse should recognize that the client understands the teaching when he identifies which of the following as manifestations of hypoglycemia? (Select all that apply.)

A. An N-95 respirator is designed to filter out airborne particles and is used primarily for protection against airborne diseases such as tuberculosis or certain respiratory infections like COVID-19. It is not necessary for contact precautions unless there is also a risk of airborne transmission.

B. Goggles protect the eyes from splashes, sprays, or droplets of infectious material. They are not typically required for routine contact precautions unless there is a risk of splashes or sprays to the eyes.
C. Gloves are essential for contact precautions. They protect the nurse's hands from direct contact with potentially infectious material on the client's bed linen or any contaminated surfaces. Gloves should be worn when handling soiled linen and removed and discarded appropriately after use.
D. A face shield provides full-face protection against splashes, sprays, or splatters of infectious material. It is particularly useful when there is a risk of exposure to bodily fluids or during procedures that may generate splashes. While not always required for routine contact precautions, it may be used depending on the specific situation, such as when cleaning surfaces heavily contaminated with body fluids.

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.