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 D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Urine specific gravity of 1.035 indicates dehydration, which is concerning but not the most critical issue in a client with a bowel obstruction.
Choice B rationale
Colicky pain is typical of bowel obstruction as the intestines try to move contents past the obstruction, and while concerning, it is expected.
Choice C rationale
Serum sodium of 132 mEq/L indicates mild hyponatremia, which is concerning but not immediately life-threatening in the context of bowel obstruction.
Choice D rationale
Frank blood in the N/G suction container indicates possible bowel ischemia or perforation, which requires immediate intervention and is the most concerning finding.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Hypoactive bowel sounds are common post-operatively due to anesthesia and immobility, so they are not the most concerning immediate finding.
Choice B rationale
Intermittent incisional pain rated 7/10 is significant but expected post-operatively, and manageable with pain control measures.
Choice C rationale
Blood pressure of 110/70 and heart rate of 86 are within normal ranges, so these are not alarming post-operative signs.
Choice D rationale
Increased restlessness can indicate pain, anxiety, or potentially worsening condition, making it the most concerning and requiring immediate attention.
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.
