The client has an enlarged thyroid gland and is currently admitted to a medical nursing unit. Which of the following is accurate regarding the procedure for a thyroid assessment for this cli-ent?
1. Deep palpation should be used anterior and posterior.
2. Swallowing sips of water causes the isthmus of the thyroid gland to rise.
3. The posterior approach is used when the fingers are placed over the trachea.
4. The diaphragm of the stethoscope is best used for the auscultation of bruits.
ANS: 2
During assessment of the thyroid gland, the client holds a cup of water and takes a sip to swal-low once instructed by the nurse. As the client swallows, the isthmus of the thyroid gland rises. The nurse should feel if it is enlarged. Normally the thyroid gland is small, smooth, and free of nodules. Light, gentle palpation is needed to feel any abnormalities.
For the posterior approach, both of the nurse's hands are placed around the neck, with two fin-gers of each hand on the sides of the trachea just beneath the cricoid cartilage.
The bell of the stethoscope is best for auscultation of bruits.
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