A nurse is assisting with the implementation of a bowel training program for a client. For the program to be effective, the nurse should take the client to the bathroom at which of the following times?
Every 2 hr while the client is awake
When the client has the urge to defecate
Immediately before meals
After the client feels abdominal cramping
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A: Taking the client to the bathroom every 2 hours while awake is not an effective strategy for bowel training. This may disrupt the client's natural bowel rhythm and cause unnecessary stress and frustration. Bowel training aims to establish a regular and predictable time for elimination, not a frequent and arbitrary one¹².
Choice B: Taking the client to the bathroom when they have the urge to defecate is the best option for bowel training. This helps the client to respond to their body's signals and avoid suppressing or delaying the urge. It also reinforces the association between the urge and the act of defecation, which can improve bowel control and prevent constipation¹².
Choice C: Taking the client to the bathroom immediately before meals is not a good idea for bowel training. This may interfere with the client's appetite and digestion, as well as their social and emotional well-being. Bowel training should not be associated with negative or unpleasant feelings. Moreover, eating stimulates the gastrocolic reflex, which increases the motility of the colon and the likelihood of having a bowel movement after a meal¹³.
Choice D: Taking the client to the bathroom after they feel abdominal cramping is not a reliable method for bowel training. Abdominal cramping may indicate various conditions, such as irritable bowel syndrome, food intolerance, infection, or inflammation. It may not always be related to the need to defecate. Waiting for cramping to occur may also delay the evacuation and worsen the symptoms¹³.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: Bacteria are not detected by the stool guaiac test. The stool guaiac test is a chemical test that reacts with hemoglobin, a protein found in red blood cells. Bacteria are microorganisms that do not contain hemoglobin.
Choice B reason: Fat is not detected by the stool guaiac test. The stool guaiac test is a chemical test that reacts with hemoglobin, a protein found in red blood cells. Fat is a lipid that does not contain hemoglobin.
Choice C reason: Parasites are not detected by the stool guaiac test. The stool guaiac test is a chemical test that reacts with hemoglobin, a protein found in red blood cells. Parasites are organisms that live in or on another host and do not contain hemoglobin.
Choice D reason: Blood is detected by the stool guaiac test. The stool guaiac test is a chemical test that reacts with hemoglobin, a protein found in red blood cells. Blood can indicate bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract, which can be caused by various conditions such as ulcers, polyps, or cancer.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Requesting that the provider prescribe a stool softener is not the best action for the nurse to take, as it may cause dependency, dehydration, or electrolyte imbalance. The nurse should try non-pharmacological interventions first, such as increasing fluid and fiber intake, promoting physical activity, and establishing a regular bowel routine.
Choice B reason: Adding fluid and fiber to the diet is the best action for the nurse to take, as it helps to soften the stool, increase the bulk, and stimulate peristalsis. The nurse should encourage the client to drink at least 2 liters of water per day and eat foods rich in fiber, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
Choice C reason: Promoting active range-of-motion activities is a good action for the nurse to take, as it helps to improve circulation, muscle tone, and bowel motility. The nurse should assist the client to perform exercises that are appropriate for their level of mobility and endurance.
Choice D reason: Avoiding gas-producing foods is not a necessary action for the nurse to take, as it does not directly affect constipation. Gas-producing foods, such as beans, cabbage, and broccoli, may cause bloating and discomfort, but they do not cause or worsen constipation.
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