Which sign should a nurse include in teaching for a client who has had a thyroidectomy to observe for surgically induced hypothyroidism?

After a thyroidectomy, patients may experience surgically induced hypothyroidism due to the loss of thyroid tissue necessary for hormone production. Dry skin is a significant sign of hypothyroidism because thyroid hormones play a crucial role in maintaining skin moisture and overall skin health. In the absence of adequate thyroid hormone levels, the skin can become dry, coarse, and less elastic. Nurses should educate clients to monitor for this symptom as it indicates a deficiency in hormone production, which can affect various body functions, leading to more severe complications if not addressed.

While hair loss, increased heart rate, and weight loss can be associated with thyroid dysfunction, they may not specifically indicate hypothyroidism. Hair loss can occur with both hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism but is not as direct an indicator of low thyroid function. Increased heart rate is typically a sign of hyperthyroidism as well. As for weight loss, it may happen in cases of hyperthyroidism, which contrasts with the weight gain often seen in hypothyroidism. Thus, dry skin stands out as a key sign to monitor for hypothyroidism following a thyroidectomy.