A nurse is caring for a client after a subtotal thyroidectomy. Which of the following manifestations would lead the nurse to suspect that the procedure caused damage to the client's parathyroid glands?

A. I will need to wear a medical alert bracelet at all times: This statement is correct. Clients with Addison's disease should wear a medical alert bracelet to inform healthcare providers of their condition in case of an emergency, as it could impact treatment decisions.
B. I will need to hold my hydrocortisone dose if I have an infection: This statement indicates a need for additional teaching. Clients with Addison's disease should not hold their hydrocortisone dose if they have an infection. In fact, they may need to increase their dose during periods of stress or illness to manage their condition effectively.
C. I will take my hydrocortisone tablets twice a day: This statement is correct. Hydrocortisone is typically taken in divided doses to mimic the natural release of cortisol from the adrenal glands.
D. I will need to eat a high-sodium diet: This statement is correct. Clients with Addison's disease often need to increase their sodium intake, as they may have difficulties retaining sodium due to adrenal insufficiency.

A. They are more prone to hyperthermia and may require cooling measures: Hypothyroidism typically leads to hypothermia (lower body temperature) rather than hyperthermia. Clients with hypothyroidism are more likely to experience difficulty maintaining normal body temperature.
B. Their levothyroxine should be held for 3 days prior to and after the surgery: Levothyroxine should not be held before or after surgery without specific guidance from the healthcare provider. Maintaining consistent thyroid hormone levels is crucial for clients with hypothyroidism.
C. They are at risk of developing tachycardia and should be given propranolol: Hypothyroidism is more commonly associated with bradycardia (slow heart rate) rather than tachycardia (fast heart rate). Propranolol is used to manage symptoms of hyperthyroidism, not hypothyroidism.
D. They are more sensitive to the effects of opioids and may require lower doses: Clients with hypothyroidism often have a reduced metabolic rate, which can increase their sensitivity to medications, including opioids. Therefore, they may require lower doses of opioids to avoid adverse effects.