Which intervention is the most important for the practical nurse (PN) to implement when applying an ice pack to a client?

Hoarseness or voice changes after thyroidectomy can be indicative of injury or irritation to the recurrent laryngeal nerve, which is responsible for controlling the vocal cords. This is a potential complication of the surgery and should be reported to the charge nurse or healthcare provider for further evaluation and management.

B. Administer humidified oxygen per nasal cannula: This option is not appropriate for addressing hoarseness in a client following a thyroidectomy. Hoarseness after a thyroidectomy is typically related to vocal cord injury or irritation, and providing humidified oxygen would not directly address this issue. It is important to notify the charge nurse or healthcare provider for further evaluation and management.
C. Obtain a cup of ice chips for the client: Providing ice chips is not the appropriate action for hoarseness following a thyroidectomy. Ice chips are typically used to provide hydration and comfort to clients, but they do not directly address the underlying cause of hoarseness, which in this case may be vocal cord injury or irritation. It is important to notify the charge nurse or healthcare provider for appropriate evaluation and management.
D. Ensure that the drainage device is compressed: While ensuring proper compression of a drainage device is important for preventing complications such as bleeding or infection, it is not directly related to the client's hoarseness. Hoarseness after a thyroidectomy is more likely related to vocal cord injury or irritation, and notifying the charge nurse or healthcare provider is necessary for further assessment and management.

This statement suggests that the client has found sources of emotional support and is relying on them to cope with the challenges posed by his prognosis. Acceptance of a prognosis often involves coming to terms with the reality of the situation and finding ways to manage the emotional and practical aspects of it. By acknowledging the support he has received from his faith and family, the client demonstrates a willingness to lean on these resources for strength and comfort.
The other statements do not necessarily reflect acceptance of the prognosis:

A. "I think I had this disease for a long time, but the doctor did not find it." This statement implies a sense of disbelief or frustration with the delay in diagnosing the disease, rather than acceptance of the prognosis itself.
C. "I understand this is a disease that occurs mostly in older men." While this statement shows some awareness of the disease, it does not necessarily indicate acceptance. It may simply reflect an understanding of the demographics of prostate cancer without addressing the client's personal feelings or coping mechanisms.
D. "I do not have any use for those who say this disease is going to win." This statement may indicate resistance or defiance towards the negative outlook associated with the disease. It suggests a desire to maintain a positive attitude but does not necessarily reflect a full acceptance of the prognosis and its implications.