A nurse is caring for a 60-year-old client who has recently undergone a thyroidectomy. Which of the following postoperative complications is most critical for the nurse to monitor when caring for this client?
A) Bradycardia
B) Fever
C) Difficulty in breathing
D) Peripheral edema
C
Feedback:
The nurse should monitor the client for difficulty in breathing following a thyroidectomy. Edema of the laryngeal area can cause respiratory distress. Bradycardia, fever, and peripheral edema are not complications associated with thyroidectomy. Symptoms, such as tachycardia, anxiety, and an abrupt increase in vital signs, indicate thyrotoxicosis—a possible complication of thyroidectomy.
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