A nurse is caring for a client who is immediately postoperative following a subtotal thyroidectomy.

Vital Signs

1100:

Temperature 37.4° C (99.4° F) Heart rate 98/min Respiratory rate 18/min

Blood pressure 128/68 mm Hg

Pulse oximetry 97% on room air

1115:

Temperature 37.8° C (100.1° F) Heart rate 110/min Respiratory rate 16/min

Blood pressure 138/74 mm Hg

Pulse oximetry 95% on room air

1130:

Temperature 38.6° C (101.5° F). Heart rate 136/min

Respiratory rate 16/min

Blood pressure 154/86 mm Hg

Pulse oximetry 95% on 2 L/min via nasal cannula

Select the 4 client findings that lead the nurse to suspect that the client is experiencing thyroid storm.

A. Incorrect. The lithotomy position is not appropriate for this procedure, as it can cause discomfort and embarrassment to the client. The nurse should place the client in a left lateral Sims' position with the right knee flexed for better access to the rectum and to reduce pressure on the abdominal organs.

B. Incorrect. The nurse should avoid eliciting a vagal response, as it can cause bradycardia, hypotension, and syncope in some clients. The nurse should monitor the client's vital signs and stop the procedure if signs of vagal stimulation occur.

C. Incorrect. Oral bisacodyl is a stimulant laxative that can cause abdominal cramping, diarrhea, and electrolyte imbalance. It is not indicated for fecal impaction, as it can worsen the condition by increasing the bulk and hardness of the stool. The nurse should administer an enema or a stool softener before attempting digital evacuation.

D. Correct. The nurse should insert a lubricated gloved finger and advance along the rectal wall, breaking up the stool and removing it in small pieces. The nurse should use gentle pressure and avoid injuring the rectal mucosa. The nurse should also explain the procedure to the client and obtain informed consent before performing it.

A is incorrect because assessing the apical pulse while the newborn is crying can result in an inaccurate measurement due to increased heart rate and respiratory rate.

B is incorrect because palpating the radial pulse for 30 seconds is not appropriate for a newborn as it can be difficult to locate and count accurately.

C is incorrect because listening to the apical pulse while palpating the radial pulse is not necessary for a newborn and can be confusing and time-consuming.

D is correct because auscultating the apical pulse at least 1 min is the best way to assess a newborn's heart rate as it provides an accurate and reliable measurement.