A nurse is reviewing the laboratory report of a client who has hypoparathyroidism. The nurse should expect which of the following values?

Choice A: Maintain the client in Fowler’s position. This is correct because Fowler’s position, which is a semi-sitting position with the head of the bed elevated 45 to 60 degrees, can facilitate the drainage of gastric contents and reduce the risk of aspiration.

Choice B: Use sterile water to irrigate the nasogastric tube. This is incorrect because sterile water is not necessary to irrigate the nasogastric tube, unless the client is immunocompromised or has a high risk of infection. Tap water or normal saline can be used to irrigate the nasogastric tube, following the provider’s orders or the facility’s protocol.

Choice C: Moisten the client’s lips with lemon-glycerin swabs. This is incorrect because lemon-glycerin swabs can dry out and irritate the client’s lips and oral mucosa, especially if used frequently. The nurse should use water-soluble lubricant or lip balm to moisturize the client’s lips and mouth.

Choice D: Measure abdominal girth daily. This is incorrect because measuring abdominal girth daily is not enough to monitor the progression of the intestinal obstruction and the effectiveness of the gastrointestinal decompression. The nurse should measure abdominal girth more frequently, such as every 4 hr or every shift, and report any changes or abnormalities.

Choice A: Provide bulk-forming agent. This is incorrect because bulk-forming agents are used to treat constipation, not bowel obstruction. They can worsen the obstruction by increasing the stool volume and pressure in the bowel.

Choice B: Elevate the head of the bed. Elevating the head of the bed is an important intervention for clients with a small bowel obstruction. It can help reduce abdominal pressure, promote comfort, and facilitate better respiratory function, especially if the client is experiencing any associated nausea or vomiting. This position can also aid in the proper positioning of the intestines, potentially helping with any non-complicated obstructions.

Choice D: Monitor intake and output every 8 hr. This is incorrect because monitoring intake and output is not enough to assess the fluid and electrolyte balance of a client with a bowel obstruction. The nurse should monitor intake and output more frequently, such as every 4 hr or every shift, and report any signs of dehydration or imbalance.

Choice C: Measure abdominal girth daily. While this is an important assessment for monitoring the status of the obstruction, the immediate intervention of elevating the head of the bed can provide immediate comfort and support during the acute phase of the obstruction.