Examkin

Question

Difficulty: MediumBasic Care and Comfort

An adult client is transferred to the surgical unit following a subtotal thyroidectomy. The client reports mild discomfort at the anterior neck incision site. Which positioning intervention is most appropriate for the practical nurse to implement to promote comfort and prevent complications?

  1. Maintain the bed in a semi-Fowler's position at 30 to 45 degrees while supporting the head and neck with pillows.Answer
  2. B
    Place the client flat in a supine position with a small rolled towel placed directly beneath the cervical spine.
  3. C
    Assist the client into a continuous lateral side-lying position to facilitate the drainage of oral secretions.
  4. D
    Position the client upright at 90 degrees and instruct them to rest their chin firmly against their chest.

Answer

Maintain the bed in a semi-Fowler's position at 30 to 45 degrees while supporting the head and neck with pillows.
Placing the client in a semi-Fowler's position (30 to 45 degrees) uses gravity to help reduce edema in the head and neck, which is critical for protecting the airway after thyroid surgery. Simultaneously supporting the head and neck with pillows keeps the cervical spine in a neutral position, preventing tension on the surgical incision and minimizing pain.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the surgical procedure and its anatomical location.
The client had a subtotal thyroidectomy, meaning an incision was made in the anterior neck.
Understanding the surgical site is necessary to anticipate potential complications such as airway compromise or bleeding.
2
Identify the primary goals for post-thyroidectomy positioning.
The goals are to maintain a patent airway, reduce tissue edema, and prevent tension or stretching on the neck suture line.
Proper positioning directly impacts the client's respiratory status and wound healing.
3
Evaluate the positioning options against the identified goals.
The semi-Fowler's position with head and neck support meets all criteria by decreasing swelling via gravity and keeping the neck in a neutral alignment.
This specific alignment prevents hyperextension and hyperflexion, both of which are dangerous post-thyroidectomy.

Key Concept

Post-Operative Thyroidectomy Positioning and Airway Management
Rate this question

Topics

Basic Care and Comfort

More questions from this topic