Answer to Question 1
Correct Answer: 3, 4, 5
A postoperative complication is hemorrhage, which can manifest as a dropping blood pressure and rapid heart rate. Stridor, a high-pitched, squeaky sound, is heard in acute airway obstructions. Hoarseness is expected immediately after a subtotal thyroidectomy. It is too soon to suspect laryngeal nerve damage in this patient. Restlessness and irritability are vague symptoms that could result from the anesthesia, the surgical procedure, or recovery. This is not considered a postoperative complication.
Answer to Question 2
Correct Answer: 1, 3, 5
The patient should be instructed to avoid excessive intake of foods that are known to inhibit thyroid hormone utilization, such as walnuts and high-fiber foods. The patient should take the thyroid preparation in the morning 30 minutes before eating to reduce the possibility of insomnia. There is no reason for the patient to avoid grapefruit and other citrus fruits or limit the intake of green leafy vegetables.