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:
Administering pain medication is important, but assessing the client's vital signs and pain level takes priority to determine the severity of the pain and the appropriate intervention.
Choice B reason:
This statement is correct. Assessing the client's vital signs and pain level is the first action the nurse should take to evaluate the client's condition and determine the appropriate intervention.
Choice C reason:
Placing the client in a semi-Fowler's position may provide some comfort, but it does not address the underlying pain or assist in determining the severity of the situation.
Choice D reason:
Offering herbal tea for relaxation is a non-pharmacological intervention that can be helpful, but it is not the first action the nurse should take when the client is experiencing severe abdominal pain.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Encouraging the client to eat a high-fat meal the night before the surgery is not recommended. Instead, clients scheduled for surgery, especially abdominal surgery, are typically instructed to have a clear liquid diet or nothing by mouth (NPO) after midnight to prevent aspiration during anesthesia.
Choice B reason:
Administering antibiotics prophylactically before surgery is often done to prevent infection during the procedure. However, it is at the discretion of the healthcare provider based on the client's specific condition and surgical plan.
Choice C reason:
Avoiding deep breathing exercises is not recommended preoperatively. Deep breathing exercises help prevent respiratory complications after surgery and promote lung function.
Choice D reason:
This statement is correct. Instructing the client to remain NPO after midnight before the surgery is essential to prevent aspiration during anesthesia. Clients should not eat or drink anything after the specified time to ensure their stomach is empty during the surgery.
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