The nurse must administer an enema to an adult patient with constipation. Which is a safe and effective distance for the nurse to insert the tubing into the patient's rectum? (SELECT ALL THAT APPLY)

A. Serum K+ 3.6 mEq/L: Serum potassium (K+) level of 3.6 mEq/L is within the normal range (3.5-5.0 mEq/L) and does not specifically validate fluid volume excess. Serum electrolyte levels can be affected by various factors, including hydration status, renal function, and medications. While hypokalemia (low potassium) may be associated with conditions such as diuretic use or excessive fluid loss, it is not a definitive indicator of fluid volume excess.

B. Urine specific gravity of 1.012: Urine specific gravity measures the concentration of solutes in the urine and can provide information about the client's hydration status. A specific gravity of 1.012 is within the normal range (typically 1.005 to 1.030), indicating that the urine is neither extremely concentrated nor dilute. While changes in urine specific gravity may suggest alterations in fluid balance, a single measurement alone may not be sufficient to validate the client's fluid status, especially in the context of fluid volume excess.

C. Respiratory rate 18: A respiratory rate of 18 breaths per minute falls within the normal range for adults (12-20 breaths per minute) and does not specifically indicate fluid volume excess. Changes in respiratory rate may occur in response to various factors, including respiratory, cardiovascular, or metabolic conditions, but it is not a direct indicator of fluid volume status.

D. +4 Pedal Pulses:

The presence of +4 pedal pulses indicates strong, bounding pulses in the feet. This finding suggests adequate perfusion to the peripheral extremities, which may indicate an appropriate fluid balance. In clients with fluid volume excess, maintaining adequate perfusion to peripheral tissues is essential to prevent complications such as peripheral edema and impaired tissue oxygenation. Strong pedal pulses suggest that perfusion to the lower extremities is not compromised due to hypovolemia or decreased cardiac output, which can be associated with fluid volume deficit.

A. 17-year-old who has just had an ankle cast applied: While constipation may occur due to reduced mobility after having an ankle cast applied, teaching about the hazards of straining during bowel movements is not the priority for this client. The immediate concern may be related to cast care and mobility.

B. 60-year-old recovering from a heart attack: This client is recovering from a heart attack, and straining during bowel movements can increase intra-abdominal pressure and potentially lead to complications such as vagal stimulation, which may trigger arrhythmias or further stress the heart. Therefore, teaching about the hazards of straining during bowel movements is essential for this client to prevent complications and promote cardiac safety.

C. 80-year-old admitted for an infected tooth: While constipation may occur as a side effect of certain medications or due to decreased oral intake, teaching about straining during bowel movements is not the immediate priority for this client, given the primary reason for admission is an infected tooth. However, if constipation becomes a concern during the admission, it can be addressed accordingly.

D. 28-year-old new mother of twins: While postpartum mothers may experience constipation due to various factors such as changes in hormone levels, reduced mobility after delivery, and opioid use for pain management, teaching about the hazards of straining during bowel movements may not be the priority compared to other immediate postpartum care needs, such as breastfeeding support, perineal care, and newborn care.