A client with diverticular disease has just returned from a colonoscopy. While conducting an abdominal assessment, the nurse monitors for which of the following as an initial sign of a possible complication of the procedure?
Guarding and rebound tenderness
Nausea and vomiting
Diarrhea
Hyperactive bowel sounds
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason: Guarding and rebound tenderness are signs of peritonitis, which is a serious complication of colonoscopy. Peritonitis is an inflammation of the peritoneum, the membrane that lines the abdominal cavity. It can be caused by perforation or puncture of the colon during the colonoscopy, which allows bacteria and fecal matter to enter the peritoneal space. The nurse should monitor the client for signs of peritonitis, such as abdominal pain, rigidity, fever, and leukocytosis.
Choice B reason: Nausea and vomiting are not specific signs of a complication of colonoscopy. They may be caused by other factors, such as the sedation, the bowel preparation, or the ingestion of food or fluids after the procedure. Nausea and vomiting may also be symptoms of other conditions, such as gastroenteritis, food poisoning, or pregnancy.
Choice C reason: Diarrhea is not a sign of a complication of colonoscopy. Diarrhea may be a normal consequence of the bowel preparation, which involves taking laxatives or enemas to clear the colon before the procedure. Diarrhea may also be caused by other factors, such as the ingestion of food or fluids after the procedure, or the presence of an underlying bowel disorder, such as irritable bowel syndrome or inflammatory bowel disease.
Choice D reason: Hyperactive bowel sounds are not a sign of a complication of colonoscopy. Hyperactive bowel sounds may indicate increased peristalsis, which is the movement of the digestive tract. Hyperactive bowel sounds may be a normal response to the bowel preparation, the ingestion of food or fluids after the procedure, or the stimulation of the colon during the colonoscopy. Hyperactive bowel sounds may also be present in conditions such as diarrhea, gastroenteritis, or intestinal obstruction.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: This is not a correct statement because these medications do not coat the ulcer. They are not antacids or mucosal protectants, which can form a protective layer over the ulcer and neutralize the stomach acid.
Choice B reason: This is not a correct statement because these medications do not stop the acid production. They only reduce it by inhibiting the proton pump, which is responsible for secreting acid into the stomach.
Choice C reason: This is not a correct statement because these medications should be taken as prescribed, not as needed. They are not analgesics or anti-inflammatory drugs, which can relieve the pain and inflammation of the ulcer.
Choice D reason: This is a correct statement because these medications have two effects: they kill the bacteria that cause the infection and inflammation of the ulcer, and they reduce the acid production that aggravates the ulcer. This can help heal the ulcer and prevent complications.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: This is a correct answer because normal saline is an isotonic solution, which means it has the same osmolarity as the blood plasma. It does not cause any fluid shifts between the intracellular and extracellular compartments, and it can help restore the fluid balance and the blood pressure of the dehydrated client.
Choice B reason: This is not a correct answer because 1/2 normal saline is a hypotonic solution, which means it has a lower osmolarity than the blood plasma. It causes fluid to shift from the extracellular to the intracellular compartment, which can lead to cellular swelling and edema. It is not suitable for rapid infusion, as it can cause hemolysis and hypotension.
Choice C reason: This is not a correct answer because D5W (5% Dextrose in Water) is an isotonic solution when it is in the IV bag, but it becomes hypotonic once it enters the body, as the dextrose is rapidly metabolized and only water remains. It causes fluid to shift from the extracellular to the intracellular compartment, which can lead to cellular swelling and edema. It is not suitable for rapid infusion, as it can cause hemolysis and hypotension.
Choice D reason: This is not a correct answer because D5 1/2 normal saline is a hypertonic solution, which means it has a higher osmolarity than the blood plasma. It causes fluid to shift from the intracellular to the extracellular compartment, which can lead to cellular shrinkage and dehydration. It is not suitable for rapid infusion, as it can cause hypernatremia and fluid overload.

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