A patient with Crohn’s disease has recently undergone surgery to create an ileostomy.
For which common complication of this type of surgery should the nurse monitor the patient in the postoperative period?

Choice A rationale

Pain is a subjective experience and can be expressed both verbally and nonverbally. It is important for the nurse to be attentive to both types of expressions to effectively manage the patient’s pain.
Choice B rationale
While it is true that opioids should be used with caution due to the risk of addiction, this statement can be misleading. Opioids are often necessary for managing postoperative pain, and the risk of addiction is low when they are used appropriately and under medical supervision.
Choice C rationale
Considering the patient’s individual expression of pain is crucial in pain management. Pain is a subjective experience and can vary greatly between individuals. Tailoring pain management strategies to the individual patient can improve pain control.
Choice D rationale
Using a pain scale is a common and effective way to monitor the severity of a patient’s pain. It provides a quantifiable measure of pain that can be used to guide treatment decisions.

Choice A rationale
This statement indicates fatigue and lack of energy, which are common symptoms in patients with end-stage liver cancer. However, it does not necessarily indicate denial.
Choice B rationale

This statement suggests acceptance rather than denial. The patient acknowledges the doctor’s efforts and seems to accept their own mortality.
Choice C rationale
This statement indicates denial. The patient is dismissing the doctor’s prognosis and expressing disbelief about the severity of their condition.
Choice D rationale
This statement suggests anger or frustration towards the doctor, but it does not necessarily indicate denial.