During assessment of a client's abdomen, the nurse observes that the client's umbilicus is depressed and below the surface of the abdomen. Which action should the nurse take in response to this observation?

Ask about recent abdominal trauma.

Observe the midline for scarring.

Document the normal finding.

Palpate the area for masses.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is C

A) Ask about recent abdominal trauma:
While abdominal trauma could potentially cause changes in the appearance of the umbilicus, such as bruising or swelling, it is not the most likely explanation for a depressed umbilicus below the surface of the abdomen. Additionally, without further evidence or symptoms suggestive of trauma, it may not be necessary to immediately inquire about recent abdominal trauma.

B) Observe the midline for scarring:
Observing the midline for scarring may be relevant if there are signs of previous surgical procedures or other abdominal interventions. However, the presence of a depressed umbilicus below the surface of the abdomen does not necessarily indicate scarring or previous surgery.

C) Document the normal finding:
A depressed umbilicus below the surface of the abdomen is a normal anatomical variation in some individuals, particularly those with a more slender build or a deeper abdominal cavity. It does not typically indicate pathology or require further intervention.

D) Palpate the area for masses:
Palpating the area for masses may be indicated if there are other signs or symptoms suggestive of abdominal pathology, but a depressed umbilicus alone is not typically an indication for palpation. In the absence of other concerning findings, it may be unnecessary and potentially uncomfortable for the client to perform palpation based solely on the observation of a depressed umbilicus.

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Answer: C. Document the presence of borborygmi.

Rationale:

A. Elevate the head of the client's bed immediately:
While elevating the head of the bed may be appropriate in certain situations, it is not the necessary immediate action in this context. The presence of loud, high-pitched bowel sounds does not indicate a need for repositioning the client. Instead, the nurse should first focus on assessing the findings before making any positional changes.

B. Use the bell of the stethoscope to auscultate again:
The bell of the stethoscope is typically used for lower frequency sounds, such as heart murmurs or certain vascular sounds. Since the nurse has already identified high-pitched bowel sounds using the diaphragm, switching to the bell is not appropriate for this situation. The diaphragm is better suited for detecting the types of sounds the nurse is hearing.

C. Document the presence of borborygmi:
Borborygmi refers to the loud, gurgling bowel sounds that can indicate increased intestinal activity. Documenting this finding is essential as it provides a clear record of the client's bowel sounds at this moment. This documentation can aid in monitoring the client's gastrointestinal function and is crucial for continuity of care.

D. Auscultate the remaining two quadrants:
While it is important to auscultate all quadrants to get a complete assessment of bowel sounds, the immediate action after hearing significant sounds in two quadrants is to document the findings. Continuing the assessment can follow, but the documentation serves as an important step in patient care and communication among the healthcare team.

A. Face is flushed and diaphoretic. B. Eyelids are matted and crusted. C. Cornea are jaundiced. D. Oral mucosa is cyanotic.

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A) Face is flushed and diaphoretic:
While flushing and diaphoresis can indicate fever, anxiety, or other conditions, they do not typically require immediate intervention unless associated with other severe symptoms.

B) Eyelids are matted and crusted:
Matted and crusted eyelids may indicate an eye infection, such as conjunctivitis, which requires treatment but not immediate emergency intervention.

C) Cornea are jaundiced:
Jaundiced corneas (scleral icterus) suggest elevated bilirubin levels and possible liver dysfunction. This finding requires prompt evaluation but is not typically an emergency requiring immediate intervention.

D) Oral mucosa is cyanotic:
Cyanosis of the oral mucosa indicates a lack of oxygen in the blood and is a sign of hypoxemia or respiratory distress. This is a critical finding that requires immediate intervention to address potential life-threatening respiratory or cardiovascular issues.

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During assessment of a client's abdomen, the nurse observes that the client's umbilicus is depressed and below the surface of the abdomen. Which action should the nurse take in response to this observation?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

After placing a client in a supine position, the nurse uses the diaphragm of the stethoscope to auscultate bowel sounds and hears a loud, high pitched almost continuous gurgling in two quadrants. Which action should the nurse implement?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Rationale:

While observing a client's face, which assessment finding requires immediate intervention by the nurse?

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

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