A nurse is assessing bowel sounds on post-operative day 2 abdominal surgery patients. He does not hear bowel sounds. What should the nurse conclude about his findings?
The patient may have paralytic ileus that could last 3-5 days
It is normal for all post-op patients not to have bowel sounds
The absence of bowel sounds is an abnormal finding
Document absent bowel sounds and notify the physician
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale: The absence of bowel sounds on post-operative day 2 may indicate paralytic ileus, which is a temporary impairment of bowel motility. Paralytic ileus can last for 3-5 days postoperatively and is considered a normal response to surgery.
Choice B rationale: It is not normal for all post-op patients to have absent bowel sounds on day 2. Bowel sounds should typically return within the first 24 hours after surgery.
Choice C rationale: The absence of bowel sounds can be a normal finding in the immediate postoperative period, especially within the first 24 hours. However, it becomes abnormal if prolonged.
Choice D rationale: Documenting absent bowel sounds is appropriate, but notifying the physician should be based on the overall clinical picture and other symptoms.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale: Percussion is typically performed after auscultation in the abdominal assessment sequence.
Choice B rationale: Deep palpation is usually performed after light palpation in the abdominal assessment sequence.
Choice C rationale: Auscultation is the next step in the abdominal assessment sequence after inspection. Assessing bowel sounds is crucial before moving on to other assessment techniques.
Choice D rationale: Light palpation is often the initial step in the abdominal assessment sequence, followed by auscultation.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale: Hemostasis is the initial phase of wound healing that involves vasoconstriction and clot formation to control bleeding.
Choice B rationale: The inflammatory phase involves the removal of debris and the influx of inflammatory cells to the wound site.
Choice C rationale: The maturation phase is characterized by the remodeling of collagen and scar formation.
Choice D rationale: Granulation tissue formation and easy bleeding during wound care are characteristic of the proliferation phase, which involves tissue repair and regeneration.
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