What is the most crucial nursing intervention to include in the care plan for a patient who is 12 hours post- thyroidectomy?
Anticipate and monitor for hypothermia.
Prepare to administer radioactive iodine treatments.
Resume antithyroid drug therapy.
Maintain a semi-Fowler position.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale
Anticipating and monitoring for hypothermia is the most crucial nursing intervention to include in the care plan for a patient who is 12 hours post-thyroidectomy. The thyroid gland plays a significant role in regulating the body’s metabolism, including temperature regulation. After a thyroidectomy, the body may struggle to regulate temperature, leading to hypothermia. The nurse should monitor the patient’s temperature regularly and provide warming measures as needed.
Choice B rationale
Preparing to administer radioactive iodine treatments is not the most crucial intervention at this time. Radioactive iodine is typically used as a treatment for hyperthyroidism or thyroid cancer, not as an immediate post-operative intervention.
Choice C rationale
Resuming antithyroid drug therapy is not the most crucial intervention at this time. Antithyroid drugs are used to treat hyperthyroidism, and their use would need to be evaluated based on the reason for the thyroidectomy and the patient’s post-operative thyroid hormone levels.
Choice D rationale
Maintaining a semi-Fowler position can be beneficial for comfort and respiratory function post-operatively, but it is not the most crucial intervention. The nurse should assist the patient to a comfortable position and encourage regular deep breathing and coughing exercises to prevent respiratory complications.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","B","C","F"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Performing a thorough physical assessment is crucial when elder mistreatment is suspected. It helps to identify any signs of physical abuse or neglect.
Choice B rationale
Developing a safety plan is an important step in ensuring the safety of the elder. This plan can include strategies to avoid potential harm and steps to take if the elder feels unsafe.
Choice C rationale
Taking photographs to document the abuse or neglect can provide concrete evidence of the mistreatment. These photographs can be used in investigations and legal proceedings.
Choice F rationale
Completing a comprehensive history is necessary to understand the full context of the elder’s situation. This includes the elder’s health status, living conditions, and the nature of their relationship with the caregiver.
Choice H rationale
Reporting findings to Adult Protective Services is a critical step in addressing elder mistreatment. Adult Protective Services can conduct further investigations and take necessary actions to protect the elder.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
While obtaining an analgesic prescription might help to alleviate the client’s joint pain, it is not the first intervention that should be implemented. The client’s vital signs indicate that they are in a state of shock, which is a medical emergency.
Choice B rationale
Infusing an intravenous fluid bolus is often the first step in treating shock. The client’s low blood pressure and high heart rate suggest that they may be experiencing hypovolemic shock, which can be caused by a severe fluid loss. Administering fluids can help to increase blood volume and improve blood pressure.
Choice C rationale
Administering a PRN oral antipyretic would not address the client’s immediate need. The client’s high temperature is a concern, but the low blood pressure and high heart rate are more immediate concerns.
Choice D rationale
Covering the client with a cooling blanket would address the client’s high temperature, but it would not address the more immediate concerns of low blood pressure and high heart rate.
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