After subtotal thyroidectomy, in which position should the client be placed?

After subtotal thyroidectomy, in which position should the client be placed?

• A. Prone
• B. Semi-Fowler's
• C. Left lateral decubitus
• D. Trendelenburg

Answer: (B)

Airway protection is the priority after thyroid surgery. Elevating the head of the bed to about 30-45 degrees (semi-Fowler's) helps keep the airway open by reducing neck edema and allowing drainage from the surgical site, which makes breathing easier and lowers the risk of airway obstruction from swelling or a hematoma. This position also promotes better venous drainage from the head and neck. Positions like lying flat, turning onto the abdomen, or placing the patient with the legs dependent can place pressure on the neck, hinder airway management, or worsen edema. Trendelenburg increases venous pressure in the head and neck, aggravating swelling, while non-elevated or other awkward positions don’t provide the same airway advantage.

Airway protection is the priority after thyroid surgery. Elevating the head of the bed to about 30-45 degrees (semi-Fowler's) helps keep the airway open by reducing neck edema and allowing drainage from the surgical site, which makes breathing easier and lowers the risk of airway obstruction from swelling or a hematoma. This position also promotes better venous drainage from the head and neck.

Positions like lying flat, turning onto the abdomen, or placing the patient with the legs dependent can place pressure on the neck, hinder airway management, or worsen edema. Trendelenburg increases venous pressure in the head and neck, aggravating swelling, while non-elevated or other awkward positions don’t provide the same airway advantage.