A nurse is caring for a client who is postoperative following a thyroidectomy. The nurse should monitor for which of the following findings as a sign of hypocalcemia?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Tingling in the fingers is a classic sign of hypocalcemia. Following a thyroidectomy, hypocalcemia can occur due to damage to the parathyroid glands, which regulate calcium levels in the body. Nausea, numbness in the toes, and sweating are not specific signs of hypocalcemia. Numbness and tingling usually start in the hands and feet due to their increased nerve sensitivity to low calcium levels.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: To prevent dislocation of the prosthesis after hip replacement surgery, it is essential to avoid bending the hip more than 90 degrees. This precaution helps maintain the stability of the hip joint and reduces the risk of prosthesis dislocation. Crossing legs at the knees (Choice A) can increase pressure on the hip joint, leading to instability. Sitting with legs elevated (Choice C) and avoiding placing a pillow under the knees (Choice D) do not directly address the risk of prosthesis dislocation.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Muscle weakness. Hypokalemia is characterized by low potassium levels in the blood, which can lead to muscle weakness. This occurs because potassium is essential for proper muscle function, and a deficiency can impair muscle strength. Nausea (choice B) is not a typical finding associated with hypokalemia. Tingling sensation (choice C) is more commonly linked to issues like nerve damage or poor blood circulation, rather than hypokalemia. Increased thirst (choice D) is not a direct symptom of hypokalemia; it is more commonly seen in conditions like diabetes or dehydration.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct intervention for a client with stomatitis is to encourage them to eat soft foods. Soft foods help prevent further irritation of the mouth, making it easier for the client to eat and reducing discomfort. Providing lemon-glycerin swabs could be too harsh on the already irritated mucosa. Avoiding toothpaste is relevant for clients with stomatitis to prevent further irritation. Instructing the client to use a mouthwash containing alcohol is contraindicated as alcohol can further irritate the mucosa.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Dry skin is a common manifestation of hypothyroidism due to decreased thyroid hormone levels, leading to reduced sweating and oil production. Weight gain may occur due to a slowed metabolism, not diarrhea, as hypothyroidism is more commonly associated with constipation. Hair loss is typically associated with hyperthyroidism, not hypothyroidism.