Which is a potential complication of a thyroidectomy?
a. Decreased visual acuity
b. Increased calcium levels
c. Decreased muscle rigidity
d. Glottis edema
ANS: D
Postoperative complications of thyroidectomy include hematoma, edema of the glottis, injury to a recurrent laryngeal nerve, muscle rigidity and spasm (tetany), and acute thyrotoxicosis. A tracheotomy set should remain at the patient's bedside postoperatively for at least 24 hours in the event of respiratory obstruction.
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The EMT should recognize that the oropharyngeal airway has been appropriately inserted when:
A) it cannot be dislodged by the EMT. B) the respiratory rate returns to normal. C) vomiting is no longer occurring. D) its flange rests on the teeth.
The AEMT knows that the cause underlying distributive shock is:
A) poor fluid intake. B) dilation of the blood vessels. C) damaged heart with poor contractility. D) loss of blood volume.