The nurse is caring for a client on the third day following abdominal surgery and assesses the absence of bowel sounds, abdominal distention, and the client passing no flatus. These findings indicate the client is experiencing which of the following postoperative complications?
Incisional infection
Paralytic ileus
Health care-associated Clostridium difficile
Fecal impaction
The Correct Answer is B
b. Paralytic ileus: Absence of bowel sounds, abdominal distention, and no passage of flatus are characteristic signs of paralytic ileus, which is a temporary impairment of bowel motility following surgery.
c. Health care-associated Clostridium difficile: Clostridium difficile infection is associated with diarrhea, abdominal pain, and fever. The absence of bowel sounds and abdominal distention is not consistent with C. difficile infection.
d. Fecal impaction: Fecal impaction is characterized by a blockage of hardened stool in the
rectum or colon, leading to difficulty passing stool. It may cause abdominal discomfort, but it does not typically present with the absence of bowel sounds and abdominal distention seen in paralytic ileus.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
a. Position the client flat in bed: This position may increase pressure on the abdomen and exacerbate ascites. The head of the bed should be elevated to enhance respiratory function.
b. Weigh the client weekly: Weighing the client daily is more appropriate to monitor fluid retention and assess the effectiveness of interventions.
c. Medicate the client with acetaminophen for discomfort: While acetaminophen can be used for pain relief, its use should be monitored closely due to the potential for liver toxicity in clients with cirrhosis.
d. Measure the client’s abdominal girth every 8 hours: Monitoring abdominal girth is crucial for assessing the degree of ascites and evaluating the effectiveness of interventions.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
a. Battle's sign: Battle's sign is bruising over the mastoid process and is not a direct manifestation of increased intracranial pressure.
b. Nuchal rigidity: Nuchal rigidity (stiff neck) is associated with irritation of the meninges and is not a specific sign of increased intracranial pressure.
c. Lethargy: Lethargy or altered level of consciousness is a common manifestation of increased intracranial pressure. It can range from mild drowsiness to severe impairment of consciousness.
d. Polyuria: Polyuria is not a typical manifestation of increased intracranial pressure. Increased urine output may be associated with other conditions, such as diabetes or diuretic use.
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