How will the nurse care for the patient following a
thyroidectomy?
- Place an ice bag on the neck wound because this will help to
reduce swelling and pain.
- Frequently check wound dressing and skin on back, neck, and
shoulders for any bleeding from the wound.
- Elevate the head of the bed 25 to 35 degrees. This helps to
keep the respiratory tract unobstructed and the sputum to be
expelled.
- Provide neck massage evey 1-2 hours for relaxation.
- Assist the patient and support the neck while changing the
position to prevent pain due to neck activity.
- Assess the pain using the pain scale and administer medications
if the pain is intolerable.
- Provide vapour inhalation therapy if the patient is unable to
cough.
- Instruct the patient that speak as little as possible for at
least one weak.
- Once the sutures are removed clean the area and apply surgical
tape across the suture line.
- Advise the patient to take liquid or soft diets at least in the
first few days.
- Advise the patient to take protein rich diet once the patient
starts to take regular diet because it will augment wound
healing.
How will the nurse care of the patient following a
adrenalectomy?
- Provide psychological support to the patient.
- Take and record vital signs.
- Measure intake and output
- Monitor electrolytes on frequent schedule especially during the
first 48 hours after surgery.
- Administer IV fluids if necessary.
- Assess for wound drainage.
- Clean the wound and change wound dressing regularly.
- Always use aseptic techniques to decrease the risk of
infection.
Differentiate between myxedema coma and thyroid storm.
Possible nursing care for each
Myxedema coma
It is a life-threatening condition in which patients with
underlying thyroid dysfunction exhibit exaggerated manifestations
of hypothyroidism.
There are no unequivocal criteria for a diagnosis of myxedema
coma. However, clinical researchers have identified certain
findings suggestive of the diagnosis. It includes altered mental
status that may include coma, hypothermia, bradycardia, increased
TSH level, decreased T4 level, and an illness that precipitated
myxedema coma.
Nursing management includes
- Continuously monitor ECG for dysrhythmias or profound
bradycardia that can adversely affect cardiac output.
- Continuously monitor pulmonary artery pressure, central venous
pressure and blood pressure.
- Monitor fluid volume status; measure hourly urine output and
determine fluid balance every 8 hours
- Assess cardiovascular status
- Review thyroid studies as available.
Thyroid storm
It is a life-threatening health condition that is associated
with untreated or undertreated hyperthyroidism.
During thyroid storm, an individual's heart rate, blood
pressure, and body temperature can soar to dangerously high levels.
Without prompt, aggressive treatment thyroid storm is often
fatal.