A patient develops an irregular heart rate, abdominal cramping, and diarrhea after a thyroidectomy. Which emergency medication should the nurse anticipate being prescribed?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The symptoms described suggest the patient is experiencing hypoparathyroidism, which can occur following thyroidectomy. Hypoparathyroidism results in low levels of calcium in the blood, and calcium gluconate is given as an emergency medication to quickly increase calcium levels and resolve symptoms. Furosemide is a loop diuretic used to manage fluid overload, potassium chloride is given to manage low potassium levels, and diazepam is a benzodiazepine used to manage anxiety or seizures. However, none of these medications would be appropriate for the symptoms described.

A Patient Develops an Irregular Heart Rate, Abdominal Cramping, and Diarrhea