A client 8 hours after thyroidectomy reports tingling around the mouth and has a positive Chvostek sign. Which action should the nurse anticipate?
1Give a high-phosphate oral supplement.
2Encourage deep breathing into a paper bag.
3Place the client flat without airway equipment nearby.
4Prepare to administer IV calcium gluconate as prescribed.✓ Correct answer
Explanation
Tingling and a positive Chvostek sign after thyroidectomy suggest hypocalcemia from parathyroid disruption. IV calcium gluconate may be needed if symptoms are significant. Airway readiness is also important because tetany can progress. Phosphate can worsen hypocalcemia.
Clinical Judgment Use the client cues, timing, labs, and safety risks to select the response that best fits Post-thyroidectomy hypocalcemia.
Memory Tip Match the strongest cue cluster to the safest nursing judgment.
KR vs US NCLEX items reward cue-based priority thinking rather than isolated recall.
Clinical Practice GuideFor Post-thyroidectomy hypocalcemia, compare the complete cue pattern with the client's current stability, ordered data, and expected nursing scope.
CautionDo not choose an action from one isolated cue when the full scenario changes priority or safety.
Chvostek Sign — Facial muscle twitching after tapping the facial nerve, associated with hypocalcemia.
Hypocalcemia — Low serum calcium that can cause neuromuscular irritability.
Calcium Gluconate — A calcium replacement used for symptomatic hypocalcemia.