A nurse is caring for a client who is 8 hr postoperative following a subtotal thyroidectomy. In which of the following positions should the nurse keep the client?

A. Checking the pedal pulses is important for assessing circulation, but it may not directly address the cause of the muscle spasms. In this case, addressing the electrolyte imbalance is a higher priority.

B. Requesting a relaxant might provide temporary relief for muscle spasms, but it does not address the potential underlying cause. It's important to identify and treat the root issue.

C. Correct. Severe muscle spasms in a client post-thyroidectomy could indicate hypocalcemia, as the parathyroid glands, which regulate calcium levels, can be affected during the surgery. Verifying the most recent calcium level will help determine if this is the cause.

D. Administering an oral potassium supplement addresses a different electrolyte imbalance (hypokalemia), which is not typically associated with muscle spasms following a thyroidectomy. Calcium levels are more relevant in this context.

A. This option is not ideal for levothyroxine (Synthroid) because it should be taken on an empty stomach for optimal absorption. Taking it with food, especially a meal like breakfast, can interfere with its absorption.

B. This is the correct option. Levothyroxine should be taken in the morning, at least 30 minutes before breakfast, or any other medications. Taking it on an empty stomach ensures the best absorption of the medication.

C. Taking levothyroxine in the evening is not recommended. It should be taken in the morning to coincide with the body's natural circadian rhythm and to avoid potential interactions with food or other medications.

D. While it's important to take levothyroxine in the morning before breakfast, it is not necessary to take it without any other medications. It can be taken alongside other daily medications as long as there are no interactions that would affect its absorption.