A nurse performs an abdominal assessment on 4 patients. Which of the following would be considered a normal abdominal assessment?
Abdomen nondistended, soft, with active bowel sounds in all four quadrants.
Abdomen distended, firm, with hypoactive bowel sounds in all four quadrants.
Abdomen distended, soft, with hyperactive bowel sounds in all four quadrants.
Abdomen nondistended, firm, with hypoactive bowel sounds in all four quadrants.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A This is considered a normal abdominal assessment. The abdomen is soft and not distended, and bowel sounds are present and normal in all four quadrants.
Choice B Abdominal distension and firmness may indicate possible bowel obstruction or other gastrointestinal issues. Hypoactive bowel sounds suggest reduced motility, which is not normal.
Choice C Abdominal distension with hyperactive bowel sounds may indicate gastrointestinal irritation or increased motility, which is not normal.
Choice D A firm abdomen with hypoactive bowel sounds is not typical of a normal abdominal assessment.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A Rhinorrhea refers to a runny or stuffy nose and is not related to the described stool characteristics.
Choice B Amenorrhea is the absence of menstruation and is not related to the described stool characteristics.
Choice C Steatorrhea is the presence of bulky, foulsmelling, floating stools that contain a high amount of undigested fat. It is often associated with malabsorption disorders or pancreatic
insufficiency.
Choice D Diarrhea is characterized by loose or watery stools and is not related to the described stool characteristics.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A A pale blue stoma may indicate a lack of blood supply (ischemia) to the stoma, which is concerning but not as immediately critical as fecal contamination.
Choice B A continuous draining stoma is normal, and there is no indication of an urgent issue in this scenario.
Choice C This patient should be seen first and made a priority as fecal contamination of the stoma can lead to skin irritation, infection, and complications. Immediate cleaning and appropriate care are necessary.
Choice D A beefy red, moist stoma is a healthy stoma appearance and does not indicate an urgent issue.
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