What is a significant risk associated with a total thyroidectomy in the first 12 to 48 hours?

In the context of a total thyroidectomy, one of the significant risks in the first 12 to 48 hours post-operative period is tetany, which is related to potential damage or inadvertent removal of the parathyroid glands during surgery. These glands are responsible for calcium regulation in the body. If they are damaged or removed, the patient can experience a drop in calcium levels, leading to hypocalcemia. This condition can cause neuromuscular irritability, leading to symptoms like muscle spasms, tingling in the extremities, and tetany itself.

Recognizing this risk is crucial for nursing care following a thyroidectomy. Monitoring the patient's calcium levels post-operatively, as well as watching for signs and symptoms of hypocalcemia such as Chvostek's and Trousseau's signs, is essential to ensure prompt intervention and management of any complications. Understanding this pathophysiological relationship helps in anticipating and preventing further complications that could arise from alterations in calcium levels.