The nurse receives physician orders for a client who has a suspected small bowel obstruction. Which order(s) should be followed? (SELECT ALL THAT APPLY)
Measure abdominal girth every shift.
Diet: Soft.
0.9% NSS 1000 mL at 125 mL/hr.
Morphine 1 mg IV every 4 hours as needed for abdominal pain.
Correct Answer : A,C,D
Choice A rationale
Measuring abdominal girth every shift helps monitor for increased abdominal distension, which can indicate worsening bowel obstruction or potential complications such as bowel perforation or ischemia. Regular monitoring is crucial to detect changes early.
Choice B rationale
A soft diet is inappropriate for someone with a suspected bowel obstruction, as solid foods can exacerbate the blockage. The standard recommendation is usually to keep the patient NPO (nothing by mouth) to prevent further obstruction.
Choice C rationale
Administering 0.9% NSS at 125 mL/hr helps maintain adequate hydration and electrolyte balance, which is vital in a patient with a bowel obstruction who cannot take oral fluids. This intervention prevents dehydration and electrolyte imbalances.
Choice D rationale
Morphine for pain management is appropriate as it helps alleviate severe abdominal pain associated with bowel obstruction. However, its use should be monitored carefully, as opioids can reduce gastrointestinal motility and potentially worsen the obstruction.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","B","D"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Walking 30 minutes a day, three times a week, promotes cardiovascular health, helps maintain a healthy weight, and can improve bowel function. Regular physical activity is recommended to prevent constipation, which can be particularly beneficial for someone recovering from a hemorrhoidectomy. This activity also improves overall well-being.
Choice B rationale
Taking a stool softener in the morning helps prevent constipation by ensuring that bowel movements are easy to pass. This is crucial for someone who has undergone a hemorrhoidectomy to avoid straining during defecation, which can exacerbate pain or cause complications in the healing process.
Choice C rationale
Giving oneself enemas twice a day is not recommended after a hemorrhoidectomy. Frequent enemas can irritate the rectal area, disrupt natural bowel habits, and potentially cause injury or infection. It contradicts the standard postoperative care advice aimed at promoting gentle bowel movements.
Choice D rationale
Increasing fluid intake throughout the day is beneficial for preventing constipation. Adequate hydration helps soften stools and makes them easier to pass. This practice is particularly important after a hemorrhoidectomy to avoid straining and to promote healing and comfort.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
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.
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.
