After teaching a client who is recovering from a complete thyroidectomy, the nurse assesses the client's understanding. Which statement made by the client indicates a need for additional instruction?
“I may need calcium replacement after surgery."
“I need to take thyroid hormones for the rest of my life."
“After surgery. I won't need to take thyroid medication."
“I can receive pain medication if I feel that I need it."
The Correct Answer is C
A. “I may need calcium replacement after surgery.": After a complete thyroidectomy, there is a risk of damage to the parathyroid glands, which regulate calcium levels. Clients may require calcium supplementation if their parathyroid function is affected.
B. “I need to take thyroid hormones for the rest of my life.": After a complete thyroidectomy, the client will require lifelong thyroid hormone replacement to maintain normal metabolic function, as the body no longer produces thyroid hormones.
C. “After surgery, I won't need to take thyroid medication.": After a complete thyroidectomy, the client will definitely need thyroid hormone replacement for the rest of their life, as their body can no longer produce thyroid hormones naturally.
D. “I can receive pain medication if I feel that I need it.": It is important for the nurse to ensure the client knows that pain management is available as needed after surgery to help with comfort and recovery.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Check for Asterixis: Asterixis, also known as flapping tremor, is typically associated with hepatic encephalopathy or liver failure, not thyroidectomy. Therefore, it is not an immediate concern for a client following a subtotal thyroidectomy.
B. Place the client in a side-lying position: There is no specific need to place the patient in a side-lying position post-thyroidectomy. The semi-Fowler's position is more commonly used to promote breathing and reduce pressure on the neck.
C. Check for bleeding at the back of the client's neck: Bleeding at the back of the neck or around the incision site is a critical concern after a thyroidectomy, as it can lead to airway obstruction or hematoma formation. The nurse should frequently assess the surgical site for signs of bleeding and hematoma formation.
D. Ensure that acetylcysteine IV is readily available: Acetylcysteine (Mucomyst) is typically used for acetaminophen toxicity or to treat mucous secretions, not for complications related to thyroidectomy.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Hypotension and bradycardia: Hypotension and bradycardia are associated with hypothyroidism or myxedema coma, not thyroid storm. In thyroid storm, the body experiences an increased metabolic rate, leading to elevated heart rate and blood pressure.
B. Decreased respirations and hypoxia: Decreased respirations and hypoxia are indicative of respiratory failure or conditions like severe hypothyroidism or myxedema coma, rather than thyroid storm, which causes increased metabolic demand and elevated respiratory rate.
C. Obstipation and hypoactive bowel sounds: These symptoms are more associated with hypothyroidism or severe constipation, not thyroid storm. In thyroid storm, bowel movements are typically more frequent due to the increased metabolic state.
D. Hyperpyrexia and extreme tachycardia: Thyroid storm is a life-threatening condition characterized by extreme tachycardia, hyperpyrexia (fever), agitation, and other symptoms of increased metabolism. It requires immediate medical intervention to prevent complications.
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