While assessing a patient who has just arrived in the post-anesthesia recovery unit (PACU) after a thyroidectomy, the nurse obtains this data. Which is the most important to communicate to the surgeon?
The patient’s voice is weak and hoarse sounding.
The patient is complaining of a 7/10 incisional pain.
The patient’s cardiac monitor shows a heart rate of 112.
The patient is increasingly swelling at the neck.
The Correct Answer is D
This is a critical finding that could indicate bleeding or compromised airway, both of which are potentially life-threatening complications following a thyroidectomy. Immediate intervention may be necessary to prevent further harm to the patient. The other options are important to note and should be addressed, but they do not require immediate intervention as the swelling in the neck does.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Furosemide is a loop diuretic that works by blocking the reabsorption of sodium and chloride in the ascending loop of Henle in the kidney, leading to increased urine output. However, this medication can also cause potassium loss through increased urinary excretion, which can lead to hypokalemia (low potassium level). Hypokalemia can cause confusion, weakness, and other neurological symptoms.
The normal range for serum potassium is 3.5 to 5.0 mEq/L. A potassium level of 2.9 mEq/L is below the normal range and is considered hypokalemic. Therefore, the nurse should correlate the client's confusion with the low potassium level and notify the healthcare provider to adjust the medication or provide potassium supplements if indicated.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Excess fluid volume related to intake greater than output would be the most appropriate nursing diagnosis for a patient with symptoms of DI (diabetes insipidus). This condition results in excessive urine output and, as a consequence, can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances. Therefore, monitoring and managing fluid volume is a priority for patients with DI.
Risk for impaired skin integrity related to generalized edema is more commonly associated with conditions that cause fluid retention such as heart failure, liver failure, or kidney disease, rather than DI.
Activity intolerance related to muscle cramps and weakness is a possible nursing diagnosis for patients with conditions that affect muscle function, such as muscular dystrophy or multiple sclerosis, but not specifically for DI.
Insomnia related to waking at night to void is more commonly associated with urinary frequency or nocturia due to conditions such as urinary tract infections or benign prostatic hyperplasia, but not specifically for DI.
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