Author Question: The nurse in the postanesthesia care area is concerned that a patient recovering from a subtotal ... (Read 89 times)

Redwolflake15 · **on:** Jun 25, 2018

The nurse in the postanesthesia care area is concerned that a patient recovering from a subtotal thyroidectomy is experiencing postoperative complications. What findings led the nurse to come to this conclusion?

Select all that apply.

1. hoarse voice
2. restlessness and irritability
3. blood pressure 92/56 mmHg
4. heart rate 116 beats per minute
5. high-pitched, squeaky sound with breathing

Question 2

A patient with hypothyroidism is prescribed levothyroxine sodium (Synthroid). What dietary adjustments should the nurse instruct the patient to make?

Select all that apply.

1. Avoid eating walnuts.
2. Avoid all grapefruit or citrus fruits.
3. Restrict the intake of foods high in fiber.
4. Reduce the intake of green leafy vegetables.
5. Take the medication 30 minutes before eating breakfast in the morning.

234sdffa · **Reply #1 on:** Jun 25, 2018

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.