A nurse is administering a tap-water enema to a client. The client reports cramping as the nurse instills the irrigating solution. Which of the following actions should the nurse take to relieve the client's discomfort?
Lower the height of the solution container.
Stop the enema and document that the client did not tolerate the procedure.
Encourage the client to bear down
Allow the client to expel some fluid before continuing
The Correct Answer is D
When the client experiences cramping during the enema administration, it indicates that the colon is becoming distended. By allowing the client to expel some of the fluid, the pressure in the colon is reduced, which can help alleviate the discomfort and cramping. The nurse should pause the administration of the enema and allow the client to release some fluid before continuing.
The other options mentioned are not appropriate or effective actions to relieve the client's discomfort:
Lowering the height of the solution container: Lowering the height of the solution container will decrease the force of the fluid flow but may not address the underlying cause of the cramping. Allowing the client to expel some fluid is a more appropriate intervention.
Stopping the enema and documenting that the client did not tolerate the procedure: While it is important to monitor the client's tolerance during the procedure, abruptly stopping the enema and documenting intolerance may not be necessary if the discomfort can be relieved by allowing the client to expel some fluid. The nurse should prioritize relieving the discomfort before deciding to stop the procedure.
Encouraging the client to bear down: Bearing down or pushing can increase intra-abdominal pressure and exacerbate the cramping. This action is not recommended in this situation.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Measuring the output from an indwelling urinary catheter is within the scope of practice for an assistive personnel (AP). It involves a straightforward task that does not require specialized nursing knowledge or judgment.
The other tasks mentioned should not be delegated to an AP:
Administer an enteral feeding to a client who has a new gastrostomy tube: Administering enteral feedings requires specialized knowledge and training to ensure proper placement and administration. This task should be performed by a licensed nurse.
Evaluate a client's pain level 30 min after receiving an oral analgesic: Evaluating pain level and the effectiveness of pain management requires nursing assessment and judgment. This task should be performed by a licensed nurse.
Reinforce foot care to a client who has a new diagnosis of diabetes mellitus: Providing education and reinforcing foot care to a client with a new diagnosis of diabetes requires
specialized knowledge about the disease and its management. This task should be performed by a licensed nurse.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Furosemide is a loop diuretic that helps the body get rid of excess fluid by increasing urine output. However, it also promotes the loss of potassium in the urine, leading to a potential decrease in the body's potassium levels.
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