Which sign should a nurse assess for in a client who reports tingling sensations after a subtotal thyroidectomy?

In a client who has undergone a subtotal thyroidectomy and reports tingling sensations, Chvostek's sign is the most relevant assessment. This sign is indicative of hypocalcemia, which can occur after thyroid surgery due to potential damage to or inadvertent removal of the parathyroid glands.

Chvostek's sign is performed by tapping on the facial nerve in front of the ear. A positive Chvostek's sign is characterized by contractions of the facial muscles on the same side as the tap, indicating neuromuscular excitability associated with low calcium levels. The presence of this sign in the context of thyroidectomy patients suggests that the client may have insufficient calcium, warranting further assessment and management.

While Babinski's sign, Kernig's sign, and Brudzinski's sign are neurological assessments primarily related to central nervous system conditions such as meningitis or other neurological disorders, they do not directly relate to the potential complications following thyroid surgery. Focus on Chvostek's sign is critical for identifying hypocalcemia, which is a common and serious complication in this patient population.