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.

Answer and Explanation

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.

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Correct Answer is B

Explanation

Choice A rationale
Gastric lavage is a procedure that involves the insertion of a tube into the stomach to remove its contents and is typically used in cases of poisoning or drug overdose. However, it should not be the first action taken. The type of chemical exposure needs to be determined first to guide appropriate treatment.
Choice B rationale
Determining the type of chemical exposure is crucial as it guides the subsequent steps in management. Different chemicals can have different effects on the body and require different treatments.
Choice C rationale
While assessing for altered sensorium is important in a child exposed to chemicals, it is not the first action. The nurse needs to identify the type of chemical the child was exposed to in order to anticipate potential complications and guide treatment.
Choice D rationale

Calling the poison control emergency number is an important step in managing a case of chemical exposure. However, having information about the type of chemical the child was exposed to can make this call more effective.

A. Administer IV fluids B. Assess the rash C. Administer an antihistamine D. Administer a steroid

Correct Answer is ["A","B","C","D"]

Explanation

Choice A rationale
Administering IV fluids is a potential nursing intervention for several body systems. For example, the circulatory system may require IV fluids to maintain blood volume and pressure. The renal system may need IV fluids to ensure adequate urine output. The digestive system might need IV fluids to compensate for losses from vomiting or diarrhea.
Choice B rationale
Assessing a rash is a potential nursing intervention for the integumentary system. Rashes can be a sign of many different conditions, including allergic reactions, infections, autoimmune diseases, and more. By assessing the rash, the nurse can gather information to help determine its cause and appropriate treatment.
Choice C rationale
Administering an antihistamine is a potential nursing intervention for the immune system. Antihistamines are often used to treat allergic reactions, which involve the immune system.

They can also be used to treat symptoms of the common cold, which is caused by a viral infection.
Choice D rationale
Administering a steroid is a potential nursing intervention for several body systems. Steroids can be used to reduce inflammation, which can benefit the musculoskeletal, integumentary, respiratory, and other systems. They can also be used to treat certain endocrine disorders.

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What is the most crucial nursing intervention to include in the care plan for a patient who is 12 hours post- thyroidectomy?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A mother rushes into the emergency department carrying her toddler who has been exposed to some cleaning products. The child has a chemical smell on their hands, face, and clothes. After ensuring the airway is patent, which action should the nurse take first?

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

Correct Answer is ["A","B","C","D"]

Explanation

The patient provides three positive responses to items on the CAGE (Cut down, Annoyed, Guilty, Eye-opener) query. What interpretation should the nurse provide to the patient?

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