During the evening shift on a surgical unit, a practical nurse receives handoff report on a client recovering from a subtotal thyroidectomy performed earlier that day. The client reports mild incisional pain, is permitted a clear liquid diet, and strictly follows cultural dietary practices that prohibit consuming beef and pork products. Which care measures should the nurse implement? Select all that apply.
- Maintain the bed in a semi-Fowler's position to facilitate breathing and decrease neck edema.Answer
- Apply a prescribed ice collar lightly over the anterior neck to relieve pain and reduce swelling.Answer
- Place both hands behind the client's neck to provide manual support when assisting the client to sit upright.Answer
- DPosition the client strictly flat in a supine alignment to prevent postoperative neck contractures.
- EServe a clear liquid meal tray containing warm beef bouillon, apple juice, and fruit-flavored gelatin.
- FAccept the task of administering a scheduled intravenous push (IVP) opioid analgesic to rapidly manage incisional discomfort.
Answer
The correct actions include maintaining a semi-Fowler's position, applying an ice collar to the neck, and manually supporting the back of the neck during movement.
Appropriate care after a subtotal thyroidectomy focuses on minimizing airway edema and protecting the surgical site. Maintaining a semi-Fowler's position and applying an ice collar both work to reduce swelling and promote venous drainage. Manually supporting the head and neck during position changes prevents tension on the suture line, reducing pain and the risk of wound dehiscence.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Postoperative care for neck surgery prioritizes airway maintenance through head elevation, prevention of incisional tension, and adherence to safe practice boundaries and cultural preferences.