the nurse is caring for a client who has undergone a thyroidectomy which assessment finding requires immediate intervention
Logo

Nursing Elites

ATI LPN

ATI PN Adult Medical Surgical 2019

1. The client has undergone a thyroidectomy, and the nurse is providing care. Which assessment finding requires immediate intervention?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Numbness and tingling around the mouth can indicate hypocalcemia, a common complication post-thyroidectomy due to inadvertent parathyroid gland removal. Immediate intervention is required to prevent severe hypocalcemia manifestations like tetany or seizures. Hoarseness and a sore throat are common after a thyroidectomy due to surgical trauma and irritation to the vocal cords, not requiring immediate intervention. Difficulty swallowing can be expected due to postoperative swelling or edema, but it should be monitored closely. A temperature of 100.2°F is a mild fever and may be a normal postoperative response, not necessitating immediate intervention unless accompanied by other concerning symptoms.

2. A patient with type 2 diabetes is prescribed metformin. What instruction should the nurse provide regarding this medication?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct instruction for a patient prescribed metformin is to take the medication with meals. This helps reduce gastrointestinal side effects commonly associated with metformin. Patients should also be educated about the signs of lactic acidosis, a rare but serious side effect associated with metformin use.

3. Following a CVA, the nurse assesses that a client has developed dysphagia, hypoactive bowel sounds, and a firm, distended abdomen. Which prescription for the client should the nurse question?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: In a client with dysphagia and gastrointestinal symptoms such as hypoactive bowel sounds and a firm, distended abdomen, continuous tube feeding might exacerbate the symptoms. This can lead to complications and should be questioned by the nurse.

4. A client with hypothyroidism is prescribed levothyroxine (Synthroid). Which instruction should the nurse provide?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct instruction for a client prescribed levothyroxine (Synthroid) is to take the medication on an empty stomach. This ensures optimal absorption of levothyroxine. Taking it with a meal can interfere with absorption due to food interactions. Taking it at bedtime may lead to inconsistent absorption as it should be taken at the same time every day in the morning. Taking it with an antacid can reduce the absorption of levothyroxine, making it less effective.

5. What is the primary action of amlodipine when prescribed to a patient with hypertension?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Amlodipine is a calcium channel blocker that works by relaxing the blood vessels, leading to a reduction in blood pressure. This medication does not increase heart rate, lower cholesterol levels, or decrease blood sugar levels.

Similar Questions

A client with a history of diabetes mellitus presents with confusion, sweating, and palpitations. What should the nurse do first?
A 9-year-old female client was recently diagnosed with diabetes mellitus. Which symptom will her parents most likely report?
Which intervention should the nurse implement to enhance the efficacy of the client's asthma medication therapy?
A patient with hyperthyroidism is prescribed propylthiouracil (PTU). What is the primary purpose of this medication?
The healthcare provider prescribes 15 mg/kg of Streptomycin for an infant weighing 4 pounds. The drug is diluted in 25 ml of D5W to run over 8 hours. How much Streptomycin will the infant receive?

Access More Features

ATI LPN Basic
$69.99/ 30 days

  • 5,000 Questions with answers
  • All ATI courses Coverage
  • 30 days access

ATI LPN Premium
$149.99/ 90 days

  • 5,000 Questions with answers
  • All ATI courses Coverage
  • 30 days access

Other Courses