A nurse is collecting data on a client who has urinary retention.
What findings should the nurse expect?

The correct answers are Choices A and C.

Choice A rationale: Ignoring the urge to defecate can lead to constipation because the longer stool remains in the colon, the more water is absorbed from it, making it harder and more difficult to pass. This can lead to a cycle of further constipation and discomfort.

Choice B rationale: Increased fiber in the diet usually helps prevent constipation by adding bulk to the stool and making it easier to pass. Therefore, it is not a cause of constipation, but rather a preventive measure.

Choice C rationale: Excessive laxative use can lead to dependence on laxatives for bowel movements and can disrupt normal bowel function. Over time, this can lead to constipation as the bowel becomes less responsive to normal stimuli.

Choice D rationale: Increased activity generally helps to prevent constipation by stimulating bowel motility. Physical exercise can enhance the efficiency of the digestive system, so it is not a cause of constipation.

Choice A rationale:

Dry skin is not typically associated with respiratory alkalosis. Respiratory alkalosis occurs when the levels of carbon dioxide and oxygen in the blood aren’t balanced. It occurs when you breathe too fast or too deep and carbon dioxide levels drop too low. This condition does not directly cause dry skin.

Choice B rationale:

Abdominal pain is not a common symptom of respiratory alkalosis. The condition is usually caused by over-breathing (called hyperventilation) that occurs when you breathe very deeply or rapidly. While it can cause discomfort, it does not typically result in abdominal pain.

Choice C rationale:

Diarrhea is not a direct symptom of respiratory alkalosis. However, the stress or anxiety that can cause hyperventilation and lead to respiratory alkalosis might also upset the digestive system and cause diarrhea. It’s important to note that while stress and anxiety can cause both conditions, they are not a direct result of the respiratory alkalosis itself.

Choice D rationale:

Flank pain is not a symptom of respiratory alkalosis. Flank pain is often associated with kidney problems, not respiratory conditions. Respiratory alkalosis is characterized by symptoms such as dizziness, bloating, feeling light-headed, numbness or muscle spasms in the hands and feet, discomfort in the chest area, confusion, dry mouth, tingling in the arms, heart palpitations, and feeling short of breath.