A client with peritonitis is prescribed a nasogastric (NG) tube for decompression. The nurse understands that the primary purpose of the NG tube is to:
Prevent aspiration pneumonia
Relieve abdominal distension
Monitor gastric pH levels
Administer enteral nutrition
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason:
Preventing aspiration pneumonia is one of the benefits of an NG tube, but the primary purpose in peritonitis is to relieve abdominal distension caused by fluid and gas accumulation.
Choice B reason:
Relieving abdominal distension is the primary purpose of an NG tube in clients with peritonitis, as it helps remove fluid and gas from the stomach and intestines, reducing pressure on the peritoneum.
Choice C reason:
Monitoring gastric pH levels may be done with an NG tube in certain situations, but it is not the primary purpose in the context of peritonitis.
Choice D reason:
Administering enteral nutrition may be a secondary purpose of an NG tube in some cases, but it is not the primary goal in clients with peritonitis.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Hypoglycemia refers to low blood sugar levels and is not directly related to the signs described in the scenario.
Choice B reason:
Hyperthyroidism involves an overactive thyroid gland and may cause symptoms such as weight loss and heat intolerance but is not associated with the signs described.
Choice C reason:
The client's high fever, chills, and profuse sweating are suggestive of sepsis, a severe systemic infection often resulting from peritonitis.
Choice D reason:
Renal failure involves impaired kidney function and may present with specific signs, but it is not directly related to the signs described in the scenario.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Anxiety may lead to restlessness, but the assumption of a fetal position suggests a pain response, which is a common finding in peritonitis.
Choice B reason:
Fatigue may lead to restlessness, but it does not explain the assumption of a fetal position, which is a pain-coping mechanism.
Choice C reason:
The client assuming a fetal position and exhibiting restlessness are indicative of pain, which is a common symptom in peritonitis.
Choice D reason:
Respiratory distress is not directly related to the findings described in the scenario.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.