A patient recovering from thyroid surgery is now experiencing numbness and tingling around the mouth with an increase in irritability.Which additional assessment finding would cause the nurse the most concern?
A)Decreased creatinine and BUN levels
B)Abdominal distention and pain
C)Hyperactive bowel sounds
D)Diarrhea

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Abdominal distention and pain could be a sign of a rare complication called a thyroid storm, which is a life-threatening emergency. The other assessment findings may indicate other complications from surgery or side effects from medication, but they are not as immediately concerning as abdominal pain and distention in this context.

A Patient Recovering from Thyroid Surgery Is Now Experiencing Numbness