A nurse is caring for a client who is 1 day postoperative following a total thyroidectomy. Exhibits Complete the following sentence by using the lists of options. The client is at highest risk for developing dropdown evidenced by the dropdown.

The client is at highest risk for developing hypocalcemia as evidenced by the total calcium level of 8.0 mg/dL (normal range 9.0 to 10.5 mg/dL). Explanation: After a total thyroidectomy, there is a risk of hypocalcemia due to potential damage or removal of the parathyroid glands, which regulate calcium levels in the body. The laboratory result indicating a total calcium level of 8.0 mg/dL, which is below the normal range, supports this risk. Hypocalcemia can lead to symptoms such as tingling, muscle cramps, or more severe complications like cardiac arrhythmias if not addressed promptly.