Question

A client with a large goiter is scheduled for a subtotal thyroidectomy to treat thyrotoxicosis. Saturated solution of potassium iodide (SSKI) is prescribed preoperatively for the client. The expected outcome of using this drug is that it helps:

1. progression of exophthalmos
2. reduce the vascularity of the thyroid gland.
3. decrease the body's ability to store thyroxine.
4. increase the body's ability to excrete thyroxine.

Answer 1

Saturated Solution of Potassium Iodide (SSKI) is administered preoperatively to a client with a goiter and thyrotoxicosis to reduce the vascularity of the thyroid gland, thus making the surgery safer by minimizing blood loss.

Step-by-step explanation:

The prescribed preoperative medication for a client with a large goiter and thyrotoxicosis is a Saturated Solution of Potassium Iodide (SSKI). The expected outcome of administering SSKI prior to the subtotal thyroidectomy is to reduce the vascularity of the thyroid gland. This preparation helps to minimize the risk during surgery by reducing blood loss. Potassium iodide, contained in the SSKI, is absorbed by the thyroid gland.

However, its use in this context is not to promote thyroid hormone excretion, prevent the progression of exophthalmos, or decrease the body's ability to store thyroxine, but rather to reduce the blood flow within the thyroid tissue, making surgery safer.