The nurse has reviewed the Vital Signs at 1000. Which of the following statements should the nurse include when reinforcing teaching to the client following the procedure? Select all that apply.
Explanation & Rationale
"Use sunglasses if your eyes are sensitive to light.": After thyroid surgery, especially if the client has Graves’ disease and associated exophthalmos, the eyes may remain sensitive to light. Wearing sunglasses helps protect the eyes from irritation and prevents further discomfort while healing progresses. "Continue eating foods with protein.": Maintaining adequate protein intake is important for healing after surgery. Protein supports tissue repair, immune function, and recovery, making it an essential part of the client’s postoperative nutrition plan. "Remain on bedrest for 3 to 5 days following discharge.": Prolonged bedrest after thyroid surgery is not recommended. Early ambulation helps prevent complications such as blood clots and promotes recovery. Clients are usually encouraged to resume light activities shortly after surgery. "You need to support your neck when coughing or moving.": After thyroidectomy, supporting the neck when coughing, sneezing, or repositioning helps protect the surgical site, reduces strain on the incision, and minimizes discomfort, promoting safer healing. "You will no longer need to take any medications for your thyroid now that you have had surgery.": This is incorrect because many clients require lifelong thyroid hormone replacement therapy after a thyroidectomy to maintain normal metabolic function, depending on how much thyroid tissue was removed.