Following a subtotal thyroidectomy to treat hyperthyroidism, a client is transferred to the surgical unit for continuous monitoring. The nursing staff is actively observing for potential procedural complications. Which specific assessment findings should prompt the nurse to initiate emergency interventions? Select all that apply.
- Audible high-pitched respiratory sounds during inspirationCevap
- Repeated swallowing while the client is resting quietly in bedCevap
- A new onset of numbness and tingling around the mouthCevap
- DA serum total calcium level of 9.2 mg/dL (2.3 mmol/L)
- EA decrease in systolic blood pressure from 134 mm Hg to 128 mm Hg
- FMild serosanguineous drainage noted on the surgical dressing
Cevap
The assessment findings that require immediate intervention are the audible high-pitched respiratory sounds (stridor), repeated swallowing, and new onset of numbness and tingling around the mouth.
Following a thyroidectomy, clients are at high risk for three major complications: airway obstruction, hemorrhage, and hypocalcemia. High-pitched respiratory sounds (stridor) indicate impending airway collapse. Repeated swallowing suggests blood pooling in the throat from an active internal bleed. Perioral tingling is an early neurological sign of hypocalcemia due to parathyroid gland trauma. All of these findings indicate physiological decompensation and require immediate emergency interventions.
Adım Adım Çözüm
Anahtar Kavram
Postoperative Complications of Thyroidectomy