A nurse is caring for a patient who is on bed rest and is experiencing constipation.
Which of the following interventions should the nurse implement?
Increase the patient’s fluid intake.
Place the patient on a low-fiber diet.
Request a prescription for mineral oil for the patient.
Encourage the patient to drink cold fluids.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale
Increasing fluid intake can help alleviate constipation. Fluids can soften stool, making it easier to pass.
Choice B rationale
A low-fiber diet can actually contribute to constipation. Fiber adds bulk to the stool and helps it move more quickly through the intestines.
Choice C rationale
While mineral oil can sometimes be used to relieve constipation, it is not typically the first intervention chosen. It can interfere with the absorption of certain nutrients and medications.
Choice D rationale
Cold fluids do not have a significant effect on constipation. While staying hydrated is important, the temperature of the fluids is not typically a factor in constipation.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Checking the patient’s visual acuity using a Snellen chart is used to assess cranial nerve II (Optic), not cranial nerve XI (Spinal Accessory)3.
Choice B rationale
Whispering in one of the patient’s ears while blocking the other is a method used to assess cranial nerve VIII (Vestibulocochlear), not cranial nerve XI4.
Choice C rationale
Observing the patient’s ability to turn their head from side to side is a correct method to assess cranial nerve XI. This nerve innervates the sternocleidomastoid and trapezius muscles, which are responsible for turning the head and shrugging the shoulders respectively.
Choice D rationale
Asking the patient to identify specific smells is used to assess cranial nerve I (Olfactory), not cranial nerve XI3.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
While the thickness of the tympanic membranes can indeed change with age, it typically increases rather than decreases. Thickening of the tympanic membranes can contribute to hearing loss by reducing the ability of the ear to transmit sound vibrations.
Choice B rationale
Tinnitus, or ringing in the ears, is not typically decreased in older adults. In fact, tinnitus is often more common in older individuals and can be a sign of age-related hearing loss.
Choice C rationale
A decreased ability to hear high-frequency sounds is a common physiological change associated with aging. This is often one of the first signs of age-related hearing loss.
Choice D rationale
Decreased ear wax is not typically associated with aging. In fact, some older adults may produce more ear wax, which can contribute to hearing problems if it becomes impacted.
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