Checking vital signs every two hours after they stabilizeChecking vital signs helps detect complications such as thyrotoxic crisis, hemorrhage, and respiratory obstruction that may occur early in the postoperative period. Range-of-motion exercises should not begin until two to four days postoperatively because they can disrupt the suture line. A humidifier can contribute to the spread of bacteria and infection and is contraindicated. Hoarseness and voice weakness usually are temporary and not life threatening; the priority is to observe for thyroid storm, hemorrhage, and respiratory obstruction.