A nurse is monitoring a client who is postoperative following a thyroidectomy. Which of the following data should the nurse identify as the priority to monitor?
Airway patency
Temperature
Pain control
Urination
The Correct Answer is A
Rationale:
A. Airway patency is the highest priority following a thyroidectomy due to the risk of airway obstruction from swelling or hematoma formation near the surgical site. Compromised airway can lead to respiratory distress and requires immediate attention.
B. While monitoring temperature is important for detecting potential infections, it is not the immediate priority.
C. Pain control is important for comfort and recovery, but it is not life-threatening.
D. Urination should be monitored postoperatively, but it is not as critical as ensuring a patent airway.
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Correct Answer is ["B","E","F"]
Explanation
Rationale:
A. The vital signs are stable and within normal limits. The slight drop in blood pressure post-dialysis is expected and not immediately concerning.
B. The client's weight decreased from 90 kg (198 lb) to 86.4 kg (190 lb) after dialysis. While weight loss is expected due to fluid removal during dialysis, this significant decrease (3.6 kg or approximately 8 lb) may need closer monitoring to ensure the client is not becoming dehydrated or losing more fluid than is safe.
C. The blood glucose levels are within an acceptable range for a client with type 2 diabetes mellitus. The slight decrease from 134 mg/dL to 75 mg/dL is not unusual given the time between measurements and the client's food intake.
D. The presence of a bruit and thrill at the AV fistula site indicates that it is functioning correctly, which is an expected finding.
E. The presence of crackles in the left lower lobe and an unproductive cough on the morning of Day 2 is concerning. These symptoms could indicate fluid overload or early signs of pulmonary edema, which require further evaluation and possible intervention.
F. The AV fistula site is noted to be ecchymotic and warm, with a bruit and thrill still present. While a bruit and thrill are expected findings, the ecchymosis and warmth could indicate a developing infection or trauma at the site, which necessitates further follow-up to prevent complications.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Slow, steady bubbling in the suction control chamber indicates that the system is functioning correctly. The nurse should continue to monitor the client's respiratory status and the drainage system.
B. Clamping the chest tube is not indicated unless instructed by the healthcare provider, as it could lead to a dangerous buildup of pressure in the pleural space.
C. Checking the suction control outlet on the wall is not necessary if the suction control chamber is already bubbling steadily.
D. Checking the tubing connections for leaks is unnecessary if the bubbling is slow and steady, as this indicates the system is working properly.