The nurse is caring for a client postoperative after a thyroidectomy and the client states "I have a tingling feeling around my mouth." Which of the following data is priority for the nurse to assess?
A)An elevated serum potassium level
B)The presence of Chvostek's sign
C)A decreased thyroid hormone level
D)Bleeding on the client's dressing

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The client's symptoms indicate possible hypocalcemia, which can occur secondary to parathyroid injury or removal during thyroidectomy. There is no indication of a need to check the potassium level, the thyroid hormone level, or for bleeding.

The Nurse Is Caring for a Client Postoperative After a Thyroidectomy