A nurse is caring for an older adult patient who has a urinary tract infection (UTI). Which of the following manifestations should the nurse identify as a finding specifically associated with this client?

Choice A rationale

The recommendation for average-risk individuals beginning at age 50 is not to have a fecal occult blood test and a colonoscopy every two years. This interval is less frequent than recommended for some screening methods, but not the standard for the combination of these two tests as per the American Cancer Society. A shorter interval may be indicated for individuals with increased risk factors.

Choice B rationale

The recommendation is not for annual fecal occult blood tests combined with a colonoscopy every year. While a fecal occult blood test is often recommended annually, a colonoscopy is a more invasive and resource-intensive procedure and is not recommended on a yearly basis for average-risk individuals. A yearly colonoscopy is typically reserved for high-risk patients.

Choice C rationale

The recommendation is not to have a fecal occult blood test and a colonoscopy every five years for average-risk individuals. While a colonoscopy alone can be done every five years if a flexible sigmoidoscopy is performed at the same time, the standard recommendation for colonoscopy is less frequent for average-risk individuals, as specified by major health organizations.

Choice D rationale

The American Cancer Society recommends that average-risk individuals beginning at age 50 have a colonoscopy every 10 years and a fecal occult blood test (FOBT) annually. These guidelines are based on large-scale population studies and clinical data showing that this screening interval is effective for detecting early-stage colorectal cancer and precancerous polyps, improving patient outcomes.

Choice A rationale

Abdominal distention, anxiety, discomfort, and bloating in a patient with an NG tube on low gastric suction suggest that the tube is not functioning correctly. The most immediate and priority action is to check for proper function and patency. The suction equipment may be disconnected, the canister may be full, or the tube itself may be kinked or clogged. Resolving the mechanical issue will relieve the patient's symptoms.

Choice B rationale

Irrigating a non-functioning NG tube with 100 mL of sterile water is an inappropriate volume and can cause further distention and discomfort. Standard practice for irrigating an NG tube is with a much smaller volume, typically 30 mL of normal saline, to prevent electrolyte imbalances and excessive gastric distention. This action would not address the root cause of the patient's symptoms and could be harmful.

Choice C rationale

Removing and reinserting the NG tube should only be done if other troubleshooting methods fail to restore function. This is an invasive procedure that can be uncomfortable for the patient and is not the first step in addressing a potential obstruction or equipment malfunction. A thorough assessment of the system should be performed before considering a reinsertion.

Choice D rationale

Requesting a prescription for an anxiety medication does not address the physiological cause of the patient's distress. The patient's anxiety and discomfort are likely a direct result of the unresolved abdominal distention and bloating. Treating the underlying physical cause by ensuring the NG tube is working correctly is the priority intervention to provide relief.