What is an appropriate nursing intervention to assess after laryngectomy?

• A. Monitoring body temperature
• B. Assessing sputum production
• C. Evaluating pain levels
• D. Encouraging physical activity

Answer: (B)

Assessing sputum production is a crucial nursing intervention after a laryngectomy because the procedure involves the removal of the larynx, which can significantly affect the patient’s ability to clear secretions from their airway. Following this surgery, patients may develop increased sputum production due to changes in their respiratory mechanics or the presence of tracheostomy tubes.

Monitoring sputum provides valuable information about the patient's respiratory status and can help identify complications such as infection or respiratory obstruction. Additionally, analyzing the characteristics of the sputum, such as color, consistency, and volume, can guide further interventions and treatments that may be needed.

In contrast, while monitoring body temperature, evaluating pain levels, and encouraging physical activity are also relevant nursing interventions, they do not specifically address the unique respiratory challenges faced by a patient who has undergone a laryngectomy. Therefore, while they are important aspects of post-operative care, they do not provide the same critical insights into airway management and respiratory health as assessing sputum production does.