Question

question 15 of 20
surgical removal of the thyroid gland is the treatment of choice for thyroid cancer. during the immediate postoperative period, the nurse knows to evaluate serum levels of ______ to assess for a serious and primary postoperative complication of thyroidectomy.

• potassium
• calcium
• sodium
• magnesium

Explanation:

After thyroidectomy, the parathyroid glands (which regulate calcium) may be affected. Hypocalcemia is a serious primary complication. Potassium, sodium, and magnesium are not the primary concern here. So the correct option is related to calcium.

Answer:

B. Calcium