What complications should the nurse look for in someone with gastric surgery?

Choice A rationale
While it’s important to prepare for a barium swallow test, maintaining a clear liquid diet 24 hours before the test is not typically required.
Choice B rationale
Drinking plenty of fluids after the test is indeed a correct instruction. The barium used in the test can cause constipation or impacted stool if it does not pass out of the body. Drinking ample fluids helps flush the contrast from the gastrointestinal system.
Choice C rationale
While it’s true that the stool may be discolored after a barium swallow test, it’s more likely to be lighter or white, not black.
Choice D rationale

The barium swallow test does not involve the injection of any dye that would cause a warm feeling. This sensation is more commonly associated with the injection of contrast dye in other types of imaging tests, not a barium swallow.

Choice A rationale
Calling for pain medication before the previous dose wears off is an effective strategy for managing postoperative pain. This approach helps maintain a consistent level of pain control, which can enhance comfort and facilitate recovery.

Choice B rationale
Waiting for the nurse to evaluate the pain before asking for more medication can result in periods of uncontrolled pain, which can hinder recovery. Pain should be managed proactively, not reactively.
Choice C rationale
Calling for pain medication as the pain becomes intolerable is not an effective pain management strategy. Pain should be controlled before it reaches this level.
Choice D rationale
Asking for less medication to avoid addiction is not a recommended approach to pain management. While it’s important to use opioids judiciously, under-treating pain can hinder recovery and lead to unnecessary suffering. PancreatitisPancreatitis Explore