A nurse is caring for a client who is postoperative following a partial thyroidectomy. Which of the following findings is the priority for the nurse to report to the provider?
Loose tracheal secretions
Hypoactive bowel sounds
High-pitched sound on inspiration
Client report of pain at the incision
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A reason:
Loose tracheal secretions are incorrect. While this could lead to airway issues if not managed, it's not as urgent as stridor.
Choice B reason:
Hypoactive bowel sounds are incorrect. Bowel sounds can be affected by anaesthesia and the surgical procedure, but they are not as immediately critical as airway issues.
Choice C reason:
High-pitched sound on inspiration. A high-pitched sound on inspiration, also known as stridor, can indicate a potential issue with the airway or breathing. Stridor can occur due to narrowing or obstruction of the upper airway, which can be particularly concerning after a thyroidectomy. It could suggest edema, bleeding, or damage to the laryngeal nerves, which are critical for vocal cord function and airway control. Stridor could potentially lead to airway compromise, making it a priority to report to the provider for immediate evaluation and intervention.
Choice D reason:
Client report of pain at the incision is incorrect. Pain management is important, but it's not an immediate threat to the client's airway or overall condition.

Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Diplopia is incorrect. Diplopia is double vision and is not a specific sign of malnutrition.
Choice B Reason:
Hyperproteinemia is incorrect - Malnutrition often leads to hypoalbuminemia (low levels of albumin, a protein), not hyperproteinemia.
Choice C Reason:
Cachexia is correct. Cachexia refers to a state of severe malnutrition and muscle wasting that can occur in individuals with chronic illnesses, especially advanced cancer, heart failure, or certain inflammatory conditions. It is characterized by significant weight loss, muscle atrophy, weakness, and fatigue. Cachexia goes beyond simple malnutrition and is a more severe manifestation of nutritional deficiency.
Choice D Reason:
Hypermagnesemia is incorrect - Malnutrition is more likely to cause deficiencies in minerals like magnesium, not excess levels (hypermagnesemia).
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
"I can drink vegetable juice with a meal."
Limiting sodium intake is a crucial part of managing heart failure, as excess sodium can lead to fluid retention and exacerbation of symptoms. Among the options provided, drinking vegetable juice with a meal is the one that suggests the client understands the need to limit sodium intake. Fresh vegetable juice typically has lower sodium content compared to other options, and incorporating it into meals can help the client manage their sodium intake.
Choice B Reason:
"I can have mayonnaise on my sandwiches." - Mayonnaise is often high in sodium and is not typically recommended in a low-sodium diet.
Choice C Reason:
"I can season my foods with garlic and onion salts." - Garlic and onion salts are often high in sodium. It's better to use fresh herbs and spices for seasoning.
Choice D Reason:
"I can have a frozen fruit juice bar for dessert." - Frozen fruit juice bars might contain added sugars or high sodium content. It's important to check the nutrition label for sodium content before consuming such items.
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