Endocrine Tumors · NCLEX Exam

What should a nurse suspect if a patient after thyroidectomy for thyroid cancer has hoarse voice and difficulty speaking?

  1. Temporary postoperative vocal fatigue
  2. Injury to the recurrent laryngeal nerve
  3. Onset of postoperative hypothyroidism
  4. Onset of postoperative hyperthyroidism
Show answer and explanation

Correct answer: Injury to the recurrent laryngeal nerve

Hoarseness after thyroid surgery may indicate damage to the recurrent laryngeal nerve, which controls vocal cord function; prompt evaluation is required.

Difficulty: Easy Question 15 of 20

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