A nurse is caring for a client who is postoperative following a subtotal thyroidectomy. The nurse should place the client in which of the following positions?

The correct answer is choice A. Persistent headache, B. Nausea and vomiting, C. Right epigastric pain, G. Proteinuria 2+, H. Deep tendon reflexes (DTR) 3+ bilaterally. Choice A rationale: Persistent headache is a significant symptom that can indicate increased intracranial pressure or other serious conditions, especially in a pregnant client. It requires follow-up to rule out complications such as preeclampsia. Choice B rationale: Nausea and vomiting, particularly when severe and persistent, can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances. In the context of pregnancy, it can also be a sign of a more serious underlying condition that needs to be addressed. Choice C rationale: Right epigastric pain is concerning as it can be indicative of liver involvement, which is a serious complication in pregnancy. This symptom needs immediate follow-up to assess for conditions such as HELLP syndrome. Choice D rationale: Slight facial edema can be a normal finding in pregnancy, but it can also be a sign of fluid retention associated with preeclampsia. However, on its own, it is not as critical as the other symptoms listed. Choice E rationale: A heart rate of 88/min is within the normal range for adults and does not typically require follow-up unless accompanied by other concerning symptoms. Choice F rationale: Blood pressure of 140/90 mmHg is elevated and concerning in pregnancy, but it is not included in the correct answers because the other symptoms are more directly indicative of severe complications. Choice G rationale: Proteinuria 2+ is a significant finding that suggests kidney involvement and is a key diagnostic criterion for preeclampsia. This requires immediate follow-up. Choice H rationale: Deep tendon reflexes (DTR) 3+ bilaterally are hyperactive and can indicate neurological irritability, which is a concerning sign in the context of preeclampsia. This finding needs follow-up to prevent complications such as seizures. Choice I rationale: Fundal height measurement of 26 cm at 30 weeks of gestation is below the expected range and may indicate intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) or other issues, but it is not as immediately critical as the other findings listed.

Explanation: The first action that the charge nurse should take is to remove the nurse from the client care area, as this will protect the clients from potential harm and prevent further impairment of the nurse. The charge nurse should then call the supervisor, assign clients to other staff members, and document objective findings about the situation.