Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 80%
Simulated
A nurse is caring for a client post-thyroidectomy. Which assessment is the priority?
Correct answer
A
Rationale
The correct answer is A: Respiratory rate. Post-thyroidectomy, airway obstruction due to swelling or bleeding is a life-threatening complication. Monitoring the respiratory rate helps detect early signs of respiratory distress. Pain level (B) is important but not as urgent as airway assessment. Blood pressure (C) may be affected by pain or other factors, but airway takes precedence. Monitoring the incision site (D) is essential but not urgent in comparison to respiratory status.