A client just returned from surgery for a thyroid disorder and complains that his/her mouth has an odd sensation. Which medication should the nurse anticipate administering?
A) Calcium gluconate
B) Epinephrine
C) Potassium chloride
D) Rectal aspirin

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Hypocalcemia can develop after thyroidectomy if the parathyroid glands are accidentally removed during surgery. Manifestations may develop 1 to 7 days after surgery. If the client develops positive Chvostek's or Trousseau's sign, numbness and tingling around the mouth or in the fingertips or toes, muscle spasms, or twitching, the nurse should call the physician immediately and anticipate giving calcium gluconate. The nurse should ensure that calcium gluconate ampules are available at the bedside and the client has a patent intravenous line.

A Client Just Returned from Surgery for a Thyroid Disorder