There are a variety of medications that are commonly used to promote healthy bowel elimination. Which best describes a bulk-forming agent?

Pull fluid into bowel to soften and distend bowel to stimulate peristalsis.

Absorb water in the intestine to make stool bulkier. Taken with water.

Soften fecal mass and make it easier to evacuate.

Cause local irritation to the intestinal mucosa, increase intestinal motility, and inhibit reabsorption of water in the large intestine

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is B

Choice A reason: Pulling fluid into the bowel describes osmotic laxatives (e.g., lactulose), which increase water content to soften stool and stimulate peristalsis. Bulk-forming agents work by absorbing water to increase stool volume, not by osmotically drawing fluid.

Choice B reason: Bulk-forming agents (e.g., psyllium) absorb water in the intestine, swelling to form a bulky, soft stool that stimulates peristalsis. Taken with adequate water, they promote regular bowel movements, making this the accurate description.

Choice C reason: Softening the fecal mass describes stool softeners (e.g., docusate), which reduce stool surface tension to allow water penetration. Bulk-forming agents primarily increase stool volume, not just soften it, distinguishing their mechanism.

Choice D reason: Causing local irritation describes stimulant laxatives (e.g., bisacodyl), which irritate the mucosa to enhance motility and reduce water absorption. Bulk-forming agents work mechanically by adding bulk, not through chemical irritation.

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Correct Answer is D

Explanation

Choice A reason: Green liquid stool in a colostomy pouch is often benign, resulting from diet (e.g., green vegetables) or medications. In an 80-year-old, this is not immediately concerning unless accompanied by systemic symptoms like fever or pain.

Choice B reason: Slight bleeding when wiping a colostomy is common, especially in an 18-year-old with a new stoma, due to fragile tissue. It warrants monitoring but is not as concerning as signs of poor stoma viability.

Choice C reason: A red, moist colostomy in a 45-year-old indicates a healthy, well-perfused stoma, which is normal post-placement. This is an expected finding and does not raise immediate concern compared to abnormal stoma appearance.

Choice D reason: A pale pink/purple colostomy suggests poor perfusion or ischemia, especially in a 55-year-old. This abnormal color, even with moisture, indicates potential stoma necrosis, requiring urgent assessment to prevent complications like tissue death or infection.

A. Clean the client’s skin with hot water. B. Wait until the patient has a bowel movement before performing perineal hygiene. C. Dry between folds in the client’s skin. D. Apply baby powder to the client’s skin.

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Choice A reason: Hot water can scald or irritate sensitive skin, especially in incontinent patients prone to breakdown. Warm water with mild soap is recommended to clean without causing thermal injury or exacerbating skin irritation.

Choice B reason: Waiting for a bowel movement before hygiene increases the risk of skin breakdown and infection, as urine and feces can irritate skin. Regular cleaning after each incontinent episode is essential to maintain skin integrity.

Choice C reason: Drying between skin folds prevents moisture accumulation, which fosters bacterial and fungal growth, leading to infections or dermatitis. Thorough drying after cleaning is critical for incontinent patients to protect skin and prevent complications.

Choice D reason: Baby powder can clump in moist areas, creating an environment for bacterial growth and skin irritation. It is not recommended for incontinent patients, as it may worsen skin conditions rather than protect the skin.

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There are a variety of medications that are commonly used to promote healthy bowel elimination. Which best describes a bulk-forming agent?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

The nurse is caring for different 4 clients. Which of the following client assessments would cause the most concern for the nurse?

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

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