The nurse cannot auscultate bowel sounds during the assessment of a client who has had a repair of an abdominal aortic aneurysm four days ago. The client is complaining of severe abdominal pain and the abdomen is distended. What action should the nurse take at this time?
Continue to monitor the client as a paralytic ileus is possible
Administer the PRN stool softener to the client
Obtain an order to insert a nasogastric tube set to low suction
Report the assessment findings to the surgeon
The Correct Answer is D
A. Continue to monitor the client as a paralytic ileus is possible
Paralytic ileus can occur postoperatively, but sudden severe pain and distension indicate a more serious issue, such as bowel infarction.
B. Administer the PRN stool softener to the client
A stool softener is inappropriate if the client has a possible bowel obstruction or ischemia.
C. Obtain an order to insert a nasogastric tube set to low suction
An NG tube may help relieve distension, but it does not treat the underlying cause. The priority is to notify the surgeon.
D. Report the assessment findings to the surgeon
Absent bowel sounds, severe pain, and distension suggest bowel ischemia, a life-threatening complication requiring immediate surgical intervention.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Epinephrine 1 mg IV
Epinephrine is used for severe anaphylaxis. This reaction is more consistent with a mild allergic (febrile) transfusion reaction, which does not require epinephrine.
B. Acetaminophen 650 mg PO
Acetaminophen is used for febrile reactions but does not treat the allergic symptoms (itching, urticaria).
C. Diphenhydramine 50 mg IV
Diphenhydramine (Benadryl) is given to treat mild allergic transfusion reactions such as flushing, itching, and urticaria.
D. Furosemide 40 mg PO
Furosemide (Lasix) is given between blood transfusions to prevent fluid overload, not for allergic reactions.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Inability to understand directions
The client's issue is with motor coordination, not comprehension.
B. Lesion of cranial nerve IX
Cranial nerve IX (Glossopharyngeal) is associated with swallowing and taste, not motor coordination.
C. Dysfunction of the cerebellum
The cerebellum controls coordination and fine motor movements. The client's inability to perform rapid alternating movements (dysdiadochokinesia) suggests cerebellar dysfunction.
D. Vestibular disease
Vestibular disorders cause dizziness, vertigo, and balance problems but do not typically affect rapid alternating movements.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.
