Caring for patients with hypocalcemia after thyroid surgery : an exploration of nurses' experiences and needs

Abstract

The aim of the study was to explore nurses' experiences and needs as regards patients with hypocalcemia post thyroid surgery. The study also explored nurses' experiences of dealing with patients with hypocalcemia, whether nurses felt they were adequately prepared to care for these patients, the availability of appropriate and adequate resources on the ward to care for these patients. Areas that need to be addressed in the curriculum of pre registered students were identified. Data was collected by means of a self administered questionnaire to thirty registered nurses in two surgical wards in Mater Dei Hospital. The main findings of the study show that experience results from the actual time nurses' spend working in the same field as well as through knowledge. Most of the nurse respondents stated that they feel confident and well prepared to care for patients with hypocalcemia after thyroid surgery. Time availability and shortage of staff were the two most cited factors that affect the quality of care delivered to patients. The action taken by participants corresponds well with literature which includes the administration of intravenous calcium gluconate or else calcium tablets according to the severity of hypocalcemia. A number of recommendations for nursing education development were identified. This study findings cannot be generalized since a small sample chosen through a convenient method was utilized. Moreover a low response rate of 53.3% was achieved. It is recommended that protocols for management of such patients are set up in each ward, especially in those wards that cater most of patients undergoing thyroidectomy. Another recommendation includes that of planning seminars regarding thyroid diseases surgical techniques, and the complications that are associated with them.