A nurse is caring for a pregnant client who has constipation.
The nurse should recommend which of the following interventions to promote bowel elimination?
Increase fluid intake to at least 2 L per day
Limit intake of high-fiber foods
Take a daily iron supplement
Avoid physical activity
The Correct Answer is A
Increasing fluid intake to at least 2 L per day can help prevent constipation by keeping stool soft and easy to pass. Fluids can include water, clear soups, teas, and fruit or vegetable juices.
Choice B is wrong because limiting intake of high-fiber foods can worsen constipation. High-fiber foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and beans can increase the number of stools and facilitate their passage through the intestines. Adults should eat between 28 and 34 grams of fiber each day.
Choice C is wrong because taking a daily iron supplement can cause constipation and hard, black stools. Iron can make it harder for bacteria in the bowel to break down food.
Prenatal vitamins that are high in iron may also contribute to constipation. If this is the case, a doctor may recommend trying a vitamin that contains less iron.
Choice D is wrong because avoiding physical activity can lead to constipation. Being active helps stool move through the intestines.
Getting regular exercise, with a doctor’s approval, can help relieve constipation. If exercising is not possible, try to fit in a gentle walk each day.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Decreased gastric motility.This is because the hormone progesterone, which causes smooth muscle relaxation, often causes relaxation and slowing of digestion in the stomach and the small and large intestines.
This can lead to constipation and delayed gastric emptying.
Choice B is wrong because progesterone does not increase gastric acid secretion.In fact, progesterone may decrease acid secretion by inhibiting histamine release.
Choice C is wrong because progesterone does decrease lower esophageal sphincter tone, but this is not a direct effect on the gastrointestinal system.Rather, it is a result of the growing uterus pushing the stomach upward and causing reflux.
Choice D is wrong because progesterone does not increase intestinal absorption.In fact, progesterone may decrease intestinal absorption by reducing intestinal blood flow and slowing down transit time.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Increasing fluid intake to at least 2 L per day can help prevent constipation by keeping stool soft and easy to pass.Fluids can include water, clear soups, teas, and fruit or vegetable juices.
Choice B is wrong because limiting intake of high-fiber foods can worsen constipation.High-fiber foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and beans can increase the number of stools and facilitate their passage through the intestines.Adults should eat between 28 and 34 grams of fiber each day.
Choice C is wrong because taking a daily iron supplement can cause constipation and hard, black stools.Iron can make it harder for bacteria in the bowel to break down food.
Prenatal vitamins that are high in iron may also contribute to constipation.If this is the case, a doctor may recommend trying a vitamin that contains less iron.
Choice D is wrong because avoiding physical activity can lead to constipation.Being active helps stool move through the intestines.
Getting regular exercise, with a doctor’s approval, can help relieve constipation.If exercising is not possible, try to fit in a gentle walk each day.
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