Nursing Process Practice Questions Related

Review Nursing Process Practice Questions related questions and content

During preoperative teaching for a client who will undergo subtotal thyroidectomy, the nurse should include which statement?

  • A. “The head of your bed must remain flat for 24 hours after surgery.”
  • B. “You should avoid deep breathing and coughing after surgery.”
  • C. “You won’t be able to swallow for the first day or two.”
  • D. “You must avoid hyperextending your neck after surgery.”
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: “You must avoid hyperextending your neck after surgery.” This is because hyperextending the neck can put excessive strain on the surgical site, leading to potential complications such as bleeding or injury to the incision. Keeping the neck in a neutral position helps promote healing and reduces the risk of complications.

A: “The head of your bed must remain flat for 24 hours after surgery.” - Incorrect. Elevating the head of the bed can help reduce swelling and promote drainage after thyroidectomy.

B: “You should avoid deep breathing and coughing after surgery.” - Incorrect. Deep breathing and coughing are important to prevent respiratory complications such as pneumonia.

C: “You won’t be able to swallow for the first day or two.” - Incorrect. Swallowing may be difficult initially but should improve gradually after surgery.