A nurse is teaching a client about foods and beverages that can cause diarrhea.Which of the following should the nurse include in the teaching?

Findings that require follow-up:

1. Refuses to look at the stoma:
   • This indicates the client is experiencing emotional or psychological distress related to the ileostomy. It may hinder his ability to learn and participate in self-care, which is crucial for managing the ileostomy effectively.
2. Expresses no interest in learning about stoma care:
   • Lack of interest in learning about stoma care suggests the client is not prepared or willing to take responsibility for his own care, which can lead to complications and poor outcomes. Education and support are needed to help the client become more comfortable and knowledgeable about managing the ileostomy.
3. The skin surrounding the stoma is reddened and has small open areas:
   • This indicates irritation or infection of the skin around the stoma, which requires prompt attention to prevent further complications and ensure proper healing. It may be necessary to review the client's stoma care routine and make adjustments to prevent skin breakdown.
4. During cleaning, a small amount of bleeding was noted from the stoma:
   • Bleeding from the stoma can be a sign of trauma, infection, or other issues that need to be addressed. Prompt evaluation and intervention are necessary to identify the cause and prevent further complications.

Findings that do not require follow-up:

1. The client's abdomen is soft and nondistended:
   • This is a normal finding, indicating that there is no abdominal distention or rigidity, which could be signs of underlying issues such as bowel obstruction or peritonitis.
2. The stoma is red and is draining brown liquid stool:
   • A red stoma with brown liquid stool is generally a normal finding, as the stoma should be red or pink in color and the stool consistency can vary based on the type of ileostomy and the client's diet.
3. The client appears alert and oriented to person, place, and time:
   • This indicates the client is mentally alert and aware of his surroundings, which is a positive sign of overall cognitive function and well-being.
4. The ileostomy pouch was changed:
   • Changing the ileostomy pouch is a routine part of stoma care and does not indicate any issues that require follow-up unless there are problems noted during the process, such as skin irritation or pouch leakage.

Choice C rationale

The large intestine absorbs water and electrolytes from the remaining indigestible food matter, forming and eliminating solid waste (stool). This absorption process is vital for maintaining the body's fluid and electrolyte balance.

Choice A rationale

The large intestine does not produce vitamin D; this occurs in the skin when exposed to sunlight. The large intestine’s primary functions are absorption and waste formation.

Choice B rationale

Preventing the reflux of food into the esophagus is the function of the lower esophageal sphincter, not the large intestine. The large intestine deals with waste processing rather than regulating esophageal function.

Choice D rationale

The secretion of digestive enzymes is a function of the pancreas, stomach, and small intestine. The large intestine does not secrete enzymes but focuses on absorbing water and electrolytes.