A patient who is constipated has just received a mineral oil-retention enema. The nurse encourages this patient to hold this enema for a minimum of how long?

Bowel training programs are typically implemented for patients with fecal incontinence or impaired bowel control. Incontinence refers to the inability to control bowel movements, leading to unintentional passage of stool. Bowel training involves establishing a regular bowel movement routine, which may include scheduled toileting, dietary modifications, and exercises to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles. The aim is to promote regular bowel movements and improve control over bowel function.

Option A, a 40-year-old patient with an ileostomy, may not benefit from a bowel training schedule because they have a surgically created opening in the ileum, bypassing the colon, and the stool is expected to be liquid and not under voluntary control.

Option C, a 30-year-old patient with C. difficile infection may not be beneficial from bowel training because it would require treatment to eliminate the infection, but a bowel training schedule may not be the primary focus of care for this condition.

Option D, a 25-year-old patient with Crohn's disease, may require management strategies such as medication, dietary adjustments, and lifestyle modifications to control symptoms and promote bowel health, but a bowel training schedule may not be the primary intervention for this condition unless there is associated bowel control impairment.

During the digital removal of impacted stool, if the patient's pulse rate decreases significantly, it is an indication of a potentially serious condition and the nurse should stop the procedure immediately. A sudden decrease in pulse rate may indicate vagal stimulation, which can lead to a vasovagal response or a more severe cardiovascular event. The nurse should assess the patient's condition, provide appropriate interventions, and notify the healthcare provider as necessary. The other options presented in the question are within normal ranges or do not indicate an immediate need for corrective action.

An increase in blood pressure from 110/84 to 118/88 mm Hg (option A) may not necessarily require immediate action, as it falls within a normal range and may be attributed to factors such as anxiety or pain.

A small increase in temperature from 98.8°F to 99.0°F (option B) may not be alarming on its own and may be within normal fluctuations.

An increase in respiratory rate from 16 to 24 breaths/min (option D) may indicate increased effort or anxiety during the procedure but is not typically a cause for immediate concern unless accompanied by other significant symptoms.