Calcium gluconate is prescribed for a client after thyroidectomy primarily for preventing or treating hypocalcemia.
Thyroidectomy surgery involves removing all or part of the thyroid gland. The thyroid gland produces parathyroid hormone (PTH), which plays a crucial role in maintaining blood calcium levels.
After thyroidectomy, damage or removal of parathyroid tissue can lead to decreased PTH production, resulting in hypocalcemia.
Calcium gluconate medication acts as a source of readily available calcium to help prevent or correct hypocalcemia. It's typically administered intravenously (IV) for fast absorption, though oral options may be used in milder cases.