MEDizzy - A client has a laryngectomy and radical neck dissection for

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Respiratory System

A client has a laryngectomy and radical neck dissection for cancer of the larynx. Two tubes from the area of the incision are connected to portable wound drainage systems. Inspection of the neck reveals moderate edema even though the drainage systems are functioning. For which clinical indicator should the nurse assess the client?

ExplanationB. The client has a high risk for airway obstruction from the edema; restlessness and dyspnea indicate cerebral hypoxia. A. Crackles come from the alveoli, part of the lower airway; the surgery involves the upper airway. There is no evidence of abdominal distention. C. This is unimportant; the pharyngeal opening is sutured closed and a tracheal stoma is formed; the trachea is anatomically separate from the esophagus. D. Cloudy drainage may indicate infection; however, this is not an immediate postoperative complication.