While caring for a client one day following a thyroidectomy, the practical nurse (PN) notes that the client's voice is hoarse. What action should the PN take?
Notify the unit charge nurse of the finding.
Administer humidified oxygen per nasal cannula.
Obtain a cup of ice chips for the client.
Ensure that the drainage device is compressed.
The Correct Answer is A
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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
When a client reports experiencing numbness and tingling in the extremities, it is crucial for the practical nurse (PN) to prioritize reporting the client's electrolyte levels to the healthcare provider. Electrolytes are essential minerals that help maintain the balance of fluids in the body and enable proper nerve and muscle function. Imbalances in electrolyte levels can lead to neurological symptoms, including numbness and tingling.
Options a, b, and d are not the correct priorities to report in this situation:
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
This is the correct answer because it allows the practical nurse (PN) to assess the parents' knowledge and understanding of hypospadias, and to provide accurate and relevant information based on their needs.
Hypospadias is a birth defect in boys in which the opening of the urethra is not located at the tip of the penis, but on the underside of the penis or in the scrotum²³. It is a common condition that affects about one in every 250 males at birth. Hypospadias does not resolve on its own and usually require surgical correction to prevent complications such as urinary tract infections, difficulty with urination and sexual function, and psychological distress¹². The PN should explain these facts to the parents and encourage them to discuss their concerns and questions with the health care provider. The PN should also provide emotional support and empathy to the parents, as they may feel anxious or guilty about their child's condition.
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