Author Question: After teaching a client who is recovering from a complete thyroidectomy, the nurse assesses the ... (Read 89 times)

rosent76 · **on:** Jun 25, 2018

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?

a. I may need calcium replacement after surgery.
b. After surgery, I won't need to take thyroid medication.
c. I'll need to take thyroid hormones for the rest of my life.
d. I can receive pain medication if I feel that I need it.

Question 2

A nurse plans care for a client who has hypothyroidism and is admitted for pneumonia. Which priority intervention should the nurse include in this client's plan of care?

a. Monitor the client's intravenous site every shift.
b. Administer acetaminophen (Tylenol) for fever.
c. Ensure that working suction equipment is in the room.
d. Assess the client's vital signs every 4 hours.

nicoleclaire22 · **Reply #1 on:** Jun 25, 2018

Answer to Question 1

ANS: B
After the client undergoes a thyroidectomy, the client must be given thyroid replacement medication for life. He or she may also need calcium if the parathyroid is damaged during surgery, and can receive pain medication postoperatively.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: C
A client with hypothyroidism who develops another illness is at risk for myxedema coma. In this emergency situation, maintaining an airway is a priority. The nurse should ensure that suction equipment is available in the client's room because it may be needed if myxedema coma develops. The other interventions are necessary for any client with pneumonia, but having suction available is a safety feature for this client.