While caring for a client one day following a thyroidectomy, the practical nurse (PN) notes that the client's voice is hoarse. What action should the PN take?
Notify the unit charge nurse of the finding.
Administer humidified oxygen per nasal cannula.
Obtain a cup of ice chips for the client.
Ensure that the drainage device is compressed.
The Correct Answer is A
Hoarseness or voice changes after thyroidectomy can be indicative of injury or irritation to the recurrent laryngeal nerve, which is responsible for controlling the vocal cords. This is a potential complication of the surgery and should be reported to the charge nurse or healthcare provider for further evaluation and management.

B. Administer humidified oxygen per nasal cannula: This option is not appropriate for addressing hoarseness in a client following a thyroidectomy. Hoarseness after a thyroidectomy is typically related to vocal cord injury or irritation, and providing humidified oxygen would not directly address this issue. It is important to notify the charge nurse or healthcare provider for further evaluation and management.
C. Obtain a cup of ice chips for the client: Providing ice chips is not the appropriate action for hoarseness following a thyroidectomy. Ice chips are typically used to provide hydration and comfort to clients, but they do not directly address the underlying cause of hoarseness, which in this case may be vocal cord injury or irritation. It is important to notify the charge nurse or healthcare provider for appropriate evaluation and management.
D. Ensure that the drainage device is compressed: While ensuring proper compression of a drainage device is important for preventing complications such as bleeding or infection, it is not directly related to the client's hoarseness. Hoarseness after a thyroidectomy is more likely related to vocal cord injury or irritation, and notifying the charge nurse or healthcare provider is necessary for further assessment and management.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) is a condition characterized by low platelet levels in the blood, which can lead to an increased risk of bleeding and bruising. Patients with ITP are at risk of spontaneous bleeding, and any injury can be potentially serious.
Ensuring the client has minimal clutter in the room is essential to reduce the risk of accidental falls and injuries. Falls and bumps can lead to bruising or bleeding, which can be particularly problematic in individuals with low platelet counts.
Incorrect:
A. Assessing the client for nerve pain or paralysis is important in the overall care of the patient, but it may not directly address the prevention of injury in this situation.
C. Evaluating the client's neurological status after exercising is also essential for assessing their overall health and well-being but may not directly prevent injury.
D. Monitoring the client's blood cell laboratory values, including platelet levels, is crucial for managing ITP, adjusting treatment if needed, and ensuring the client's condition remains stable. However, while important, this action is not directly related to preventing immediate injury in the care facility.
Correct Answer is ["0.75"]
Explanation
To calculate the volume of medication to administer, we can use the following conversion: 1 mg = 1000 mcg
Given that the prescribed dose is 150 mcg/day, we need to convert it to milligrams: 150 mcg = 150/1000 mg = 0.15 mg
Since the medication is available in 0.2 mg/mL vials, we can calculate the volume to administer using the following equation:
Volume (mL) = Dose (mg) / Concentration (mg/mL) Volume (mL) = 0.15 mg / 0.2 mg/mL
Volume (mL) = 0.75 mL
Therefore, the practical nurse (PN) should administer 0.75 mL of the medication.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.
