A nurse is caring for a client with suspected cholecystitis. The client complains of dark urine and pale-colored stools. Which of the following explanations should the nurse provide for these changes in bowel habits?
"These changes are unrelated to your condition and may be due to a gastrointestinal infection."
"Cholecystitis can lead to malabsorption of nutrients, resulting in changes in stool color."
"Cholecystitis can obstruct the bile duct, leading to decreased bilirubin excretion and changes in urine and stool color."
"These changes are related to dehydration, which is common in cholecystitis."
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A reason:
Dark urine and pale-colored stools are not typically associated with a gastrointestinal infection. These symptoms are more indicative of changes in bile flow or bilirubin excretion.
Choice B reason:
While cholecystitis can lead to malabsorption of nutrients, it is not the primary cause of changes in stool color to pale.
Choice C reason:
This statement is correct. Cholecystitis can obstruct the bile duct, leading to a decrease in bilirubin excretion. Bilirubin gives urine its characteristic color, and when excretion is reduced, the urine becomes darker (brownish). Likewise, the absence of bilirubin in the stool leads to pale-colored or clay-colored stools.
Choice D reason:
Dehydration may occur in some cases of cholecystitis, but it is not the primary cause of changes in urine and stool color.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Engaging in strenuous physical activities may exacerbate the pain and discomfort in a client with chronic cholecystitis. Moderate physical activity is encouraged, but strenuous activities should be avoided.
Choice B reason:
This statement is correct. Applying a heating pad on the abdomen can help alleviate pain and discomfort associated with chronic cholecystitis. Heat therapy helps relax muscles and may ease the tension in the affected area.
Choice C reason:
Consuming a high-fat diet is not recommended for a client with chronic cholecystitis. A low-fat diet is recommended to reduce gallbladder stimulation and prevent symptoms.
Choice D reason:
While over-the-counter NSAIDs can be effective for mild pain relief, they should be used with caution in clients with cholecystitis, especially if there is any concern about gallstone-related inflammation. It is best to consult with a healthcare provider before using NSAIDs in this case.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Resuming a regular diet immediately after a cholecystectomy may be too heavy for the digestive system, which is still recovering from the surgery.
Choice B reason:
This statement is correct. Following a low-fat diet for several weeks after a cholecystectomy can reduce the strain on the digestive system and allow the body to adjust to the absence of the gallbladder.
Choice C reason:
While protein is essential for wound healing, a high-protein diet is not specifically recommended for a client recovering from a cholecystectomy.
Choice D reason:
Avoiding all solid foods for 24 hours after the surgery is unnecessary and may lead to nutritional deficits. The client can gradually resume a low-fat, solid diet after the surgery.
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