A nurse is assessing a client who had a thyroidectomy. The nurse suspects that the client is experiencing hypocalcemia due to inadvertent damage to the parathyroid glands. Which of the following statements by the client supports this suspicion?
"I feel tingling in my fingers and toes.”
"I have difficulty swallowing and speaking.”
"I have a dry mouth and increased thirst.”
"I feel muscle weakness and fatigue.”
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason:
Tingling in the fingers and toes is a sign of paresthesia, which is a common symptom of hypocalcemia. Hypocalcemia occurs when the blood calcium level is too low, which can happen after a thyroidectomy if the parathyroid glands are damaged or removed. The parathyroid glands produce parathyroid hormone, which regulates calcium balance in the body. Without enough parathyroid hormone, calcium levels drop and cause neuromuscular irritability and numbness or tingling sensations.
Choice B reason:
Difficulty swallowing and speaking is not a specific sign of hypocalcemia, but rather a possible complication of a thyroidectomy due to injury to the recurrent laryngeal nerve. This nerve innervates the muscles of the larynx, which control voice production and swallowing. Damage to this nerve can cause hoarseness, weak voice, or vocal cord paralysis.
Choice C reason:
Dry mouth and increased thirst are not signs of hypocalcemia, but rather signs of dehydration. Dehydration can occur for various reasons, such as fluid loss, inadequate fluid intake, or increased fluid needs. Dehydration can affect the electrolyte balance in the body, but it does not directly cause hypocalcemia.
Choice D reason:
Muscle weakness and fatigue are not specific signs of hypocalcemia, but rather general signs of malaise. Malaise can occur for various reasons, such as infection, inflammation, stress, or chronic illness. Malaise can affect the physical and mental well-being of a person, but it does not directly cause hypocalcemia.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Administering an antiemetic as ordered can help prevent postoperative nausea and vomiting by blocking the receptors in the brain that trigger the vomiting reflex. This is a common intervention for clients who have undergone laparoscopic cholecystectomy, as they may experience nausea and vomiting due to the effects of anesthesia, pain, or the carbon dioxide gas used to inflate the abdomen during the procedure.
Choice B reason:
Encouraging the client to drink carbonated beverages is not a good intervention to prevent postoperative nausea and vomiting, as carbonated beverages can increase gastric distension and pressure, which can worsen nausea and vomiting. Carbonated beverages can also cause belching, which can introduce air into the stomach and increase the risk of aspiration.
Choice C reason:
Placing the client in a supine position is not a good intervention to prevent postoperative nausea and vomiting, as supine position can decrease gastric emptying and increase the risk of aspiration. Supine position can also impair respiratory function and cause hypoxemia, which can trigger nausea and vomiting. The client should be placed in a semi-Fowler's position or on their side with their head elevated to facilitate gastric emptying and prevent aspiration.
Choice D reason:
Applying pressure to the client's abdomen is not a good intervention to prevent postoperative nausea and vomiting, as pressure can cause pain and discomfort, which can worsen nausea and vomiting. Pressure can also interfere with wound healing and increase the risk of infection or bleeding. The client's abdomen should be assessed for distension, tenderness, or signs of complications, but not pressed.
Correct Answer is ["D"]
Explanation
The correct answer is choiced. “I will resume my normal activities as soon as I feel better.”
Choice A rationale:Using a pillow between the legs when sleeping is recommended to prevent dislocation of the new hip joint. This helps maintain proper alignment and reduces stress on the hip.
Choice B rationale:Avoiding crossing the legs or bending forward is crucial to prevent dislocation and ensure proper healing of the hip joint. These movements can place undue stress on the new hip.
Choice C rationale:Reporting any signs of infection or bleeding to the doctor is essential for early detection and treatment of complications. This is a standard part of post-operative care.
Choice D rationale:Resuming normal activities as soon as one feels better is not recommended. Patients should follow a gradual rehabilitation plan and the specific instructions of their healthcare provider to avoid complications and ensure proper healing.
Choice E rationale:Taking anticoagulant medication as prescribed is important to prevent blood clots, which are a common risk after hip replacement surgery. This helps ensure the patient’s safety during recovery.
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