Medical Surgical ATI Proctored Exam Related

Review Medical Surgical ATI Proctored Exam related questions and content

After a thyroidectomy, a female client is returned to the unit from the recovery room. A major complication after a thyroidectomy is:

  • A. respiratory obstruction.
  • B. hypercalcemia.
  • C. fistula formation.
  • D. myxedema.
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Respiratory obstruction due to edema of the glottis, bilateral laryngeal nerve damage, or tracheal compression from hemorrhage is a major complication after a thyroidectomy. Hypocalcemia and tetany from accidental removal of one or more parathyroid glands are major complications; not hypercalcemia. Fistula formation is not a major complication associated with a thyroidectomy. Fistula formation is a major complication with a laryngectomy. Myxedema is hypothyroidism occurring in adults. It is not a complication of a thyroidectomy. A thyroidectomy client tends to develop thyroid storm from an excess of the thyroid hormones released during surgery.