The nurse is caring for a client who is 4 hours post-op after an open cholecystectomy. The nurse would expect the client's bowel sounds to be:
Normoactive.
Absent or hypoactive.
Hyperactive.
Borborygmi.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice B rationale
After an open cholecystectomy, bowel sounds are typically absent or hypoactive due to the effects of anesthesia and the manipulation of the intestines during surgery. It takes time for normal bowel function to resume.
Choice A rationale
Normoactive bowel sounds are not expected immediately after abdominal surgery due to the temporary paralysis of intestinal motility caused by anesthesia and surgical manipulation.
Choice C rationale
Hyperactive bowel sounds are uncommon after surgery. They are more often associated with conditions like gastroenteritis or bowel obstruction rather than the immediate postoperative period of an open cholecystectomy.
Choice D rationale
Borborygmi, or loud, rumbling bowel sounds, are not expected after abdominal surgery. These sounds can indicate increased bowel activity, which is not typical in the immediate postoperative phase following an open cholecystectomy.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Tenesmus is a frequent urge to defecate, common in ulcerative colitis but not indicative of toxic megacolon. It results from inflammation and irritation of the rectal and colonic mucosa, causing discomfort and straining during bowel movements.
Choice B rationale
Hyperactive bowel sounds are associated with increased gastrointestinal activity, often seen in diarrheal states and early mechanical bowel obstruction but not typically linked to toxic megacolon. Toxic megacolon often presents with reduced or absent bowel sounds due to colonic paralysis.
Choice C rationale
An enlarging abdominal girth indicates distension, a significant sign of toxic megacolon. This condition involves extreme dilation of the colon, which can lead to severe abdominal distension due to trapped gas and stool. This can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.
Choice D rationale
Anal fissures are tears in the anal canal, common in chronic constipation or Crohn’s disease, not typically a sign of toxic megacolon. They cause pain and bleeding during bowel movements but do not indicate toxic megacolon.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
This statement is confrontational and does not provide clear boundaries or expectations for acceptable behavior.
Choice B rationale
Asking about medications does not address the inappropriate behavior and may further escalate the situation.
Choice C rationale
This response is defensive and may provoke further aggression from the client.
Choice D rationale
This statement acknowledges the client's feelings while clearly setting a boundary for unacceptable behavior, promoting a safe environment.
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.