When assessing a client after subtotal thyroidectomy for possible laryngeal nerve injury, what should the nurse focus on?

When assessing a client after subtotal thyroidectomy for possible laryngeal nerve injury, the emphasis should be placed on the ability to speak and the quality of the voice, which relates directly to the function of the laryngeal nerve. Asking the client to say what the current time is serves as a practical way to gauge their vocal function and identify any hoarseness, weakness, or inability to speak, which may indicate nerve trauma.

Assessing for vocal cord motion and integrity is crucial because the recurrent laryngeal nerve, a branch of the vagus nerve, innervates the vocal cords. Damage to this nerve can lead to vocal cord paralysis, resulting in difficulties in speaking or risk for airway compromise. Monitoring vocal ability post-operatively is a critical nursing intervention in this context.

While checking for throat edema, eliciting facial muscle spasms, and palpating for blood seepage are important parts of post-operative assessments in different contexts, they do not directly evaluate the function of the laryngeal nerve and its impact on the patient's voice or ability to communicate, which is the primary concern following this specific surgical intervention.