A patient has been brought to the emergency department with abdominal pain and is subsequently diagnosed with appendicitis. The patient is scheduled for an appendectomy but questions the nurse about how his health will be affected by the absence of an appendix. How should the nurse best respond?
"Your large intestine will adapt over time to the absence of your appendix."
"Your appendix doesn't play a major role, so you won't notice any difference after you recover from surgery."
"Your body will absorb slightly fewer nutrients from the food you eat, but you won't be aware of this."
"The surgeon will encourage you to limit your fat intake for a few weeks after the surgery, but your body will then begin to compensate."
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason:
This statement may not be entirely accurate. While other parts of the digestive system can compensate to some extent, the primary function of the appendix is not related to the large intestine's adaptation.
Choice B reason:
This is the correct answer. The appendix is considered a vestigial organ, meaning it doesn't have a major function in humans. Its removal typically doesn't lead to noticeable changes in overall health or digestion.
Choice C reason:
While the appendix does have some immune functions, the impact on nutrient absorption is minimal, and its removal is unlikely to lead to a significant difference in nutrient absorption.
Choice D reason:
Limiting fat intake after surgery is not a standard recommendation following an appendectomy. The statement may cause unnecessary concern for the patient.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason:
While thirst can be a sign of dehydration, it is not specific to recurrence of a GI bleed.
Choice B reason:
This is the correct answer. Tachycardia (rapid heart rate), hypotension (low blood pressure), and tachypnea (rapid breathing) are signs of potential recurrence of a GI bleed and should be closely monitored.
Choice C reason:
Diaphoresis (excessive sweating) and sudden onset of abdominal pain could be indicative of various conditions, but they are not specific to recurrence of a GI bleed.
Choice D reason:
Tarry, foul-smelling stools are indicative of melena, which is a sign of a GI bleed. However, in this scenario, the bleeding has been controlled, so this is not an expected sign of recurrence.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Keeping the patient in a low Fowler's position may not directly address the management of the NG tube and dysphagia.
Choice B reason:
Connecting the tube to continuous wall suction when not in use is not a standard intervention for NG tube feeding.
Choice C reason:
This statement is correct. Confirming placement of the tube prior to each medication
administration is crucial to ensure safe and effective delivery of medications and nutrition.
Choice D reason:
Having the patient sip cool water, while a general recommendation for some patients, does not specifically address the care of the NG tube.
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