When assessing a client on the first postoperative day following abdominal surgery, the nurse does not hear any bowel sounds. In response to this finding, which action should the nurse implement?

Withhold further opioid analgesics.

Obtain a prescription for a laxative.

Document the assessment finding.

Prepare to insert a nasogastric tube.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is C

Choice A reason: Withholding further opioid analgesics might be considered if the lack of bowel sounds is due to opioid-induced ileus. However, this is not the immediate action the nurse should take. The nurse should first document the finding and continue to assess the client's condition.

Choice B reason: Obtaining a prescription for a laxative might be appropriate if the client is experiencing constipation. However, administering a laxative without further assessment and documentation of the bowel sounds could lead to complications. The nurse should document the finding first and then collaborate with the healthcare provider for further interventions.

Choice C reason: Documenting the assessment finding is the most appropriate initial action. This ensures that the lack of bowel sounds is recorded in the client's medical record, which is crucial for ongoing monitoring and communication with the healthcare team. Proper documentation also helps in tracking changes in the client's condition and making informed decisions about subsequent care.

Choice D reason: Preparing to insert a nasogastric tube might be necessary if the client develops symptoms of bowel obstruction or other complications. However, this action should follow the documentation and further assessment of the client's condition. The nurse should document the finding first to provide a basis for any further interventions.

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Correct Answer is A

Explanation

Choice A reason: Starting pelvic floor exercises might be beneficial in the long term for improving urinary control after TURP. However, immediately following the surgery and while the indwelling catheter is in place, it may not be the appropriate time to begin these exercises. The nurse should clarify when and how to start pelvic floor exercises.

Choice B reason: Reporting fever or chills is crucial because these symptoms could indicate an infection, which requires prompt medical attention. This statement reflects an understanding of important post-operative care instructions and does not need clarification.

Choice C reason: Increasing fluid intake to help with hydration is important for clients with a urinary catheter. Adequate hydration helps flush the urinary system and prevent complications such as urinary tract infections. This statement does not need clarification.

Choice D reason: Taping the urinary catheter securely to the thigh helps prevent tension on the catheter and reduces the risk of accidental dislodgement or trauma. This instruction is correct and does not need clarification.

A. Petechial haemorrhage under client's eyes. B. Right lower abdomen rebound tenderness. C. Severe headache with photosensitivity. D. Dark green coloured emesis.

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

Choice A reason: Petechial haemorrhage under the client's eyes can be a sign of various conditions, including increased intrathoracic pressure from vomiting. However, it is not the most urgent finding in this scenario. The nurse should focus on the finding that indicates a potential life-threatening condition.

Choice B reason: Right lower abdomen rebound tenderness is a sign of peritonitis, which can be caused by appendicitis or other serious abdominal conditions. This is an urgent finding that requires immediate medical attention, as it indicates inflammation of the peritoneum and potential risk of perforation or severe infection.

Choice C reason: Severe headache with photosensitivity can be associated with conditions such as meningitis or migraines. While concerning, it does not take precedence over the abdominal signs that indicate a potentially life-threatening condition like peritonitis.

Choice D reason: Dark green coloured emesis can be indicative of bile or upper gastrointestinal content, which might be seen in conditions such as intestinal obstruction or vomiting. However, it is not as urgent as the finding of rebound tenderness, which suggests an acute and severe abdominal condition that needs immediate intervention.

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When assessing a client on the first postoperative day following abdominal surgery, the nurse does not hear any bowel sounds. In response to this finding, which action should the nurse implement?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

The nurse is providing education to a client who is returning home with an indwelling urinary catheter after having a transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP). Which statement made by the client demonstrates a need for the nurse to clarify the instructions?

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

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