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When performing a focused gastrointestinal system assessment, the practical nurse (PN) asks a male client when his last bowel movement occurred. The client answers, "Three days ago." Which action should the PN implement first?

A.

Administer a prescribed PRN stool softener

B.

Determine the client's usual bowel patern

C.

Encourage the client to ambulate more frequently

D.

Recommend increasing high-fiber foods daily

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is B

  • A bowel patern is the frequency, consistency, and appearance of a person's bowel movements. A normal bowel patern is what's normal for each person, and it can vary depending on factors such as diet, age, physical activity, and health conditions.
  • A focused gastrointestinal system assessment includes collecting subjective data about the patient's history of gastrointestinal disease, signs and symptoms of gastrointestinal problems, diet and nutrition, and bowel patern. It also includes inspecting and auscultating the abdomen for any abnormalities³.
  • When a client reports having a bowel movement three days ago, the first action that the practical nurse should implement is to determine the client's usual bowel patern. This will help to evaluate if the client is experiencing constipation or if this is their normal frequency. It will also help to identify any changes or risk factors that may affect the client's bowel function.

Therefore, option B is the correct answer, while options A, C, and D are incorrect.

Option A is incorrect because administering a stool softener without assessing the client's bowel patern may not be appropriate or effective.

Option C is incorrect because encouraging ambulation may help to stimulate bowel activity, but it is not the first action to take.

Option D is incorrect because recommending dietary changes may be helpful for preventing or treating constipation, but it is not the first action to take.


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Related Questions

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Choice A rationale:

“Reflection is thinking about what I did and how I can improve.” Rationale: Reflection involves self-assessment and critical thinking about past actions to identify areas for improvement. This statement correctly defines reflection and does not indicate a need for further teaching.

Choice B rationale:

“Analysis is breaking down a complex situation into smaller parts.” Rationale: Analysis is the process of examining complex situations by breaking them down into smaller, manageable components for a more in-depth understanding. This statement accurately describes analysis and does not indicate a need for further teaching.

Choice C rationale:

“Inference is making assumptions based on my experience.” Rationale: Inference involves drawing conclusions or making predictions based on available evidence rather than personal experience. This statement incorrectly defines inference, indicating a need for further teaching.

Choice D rationale:

“Evaluation is checking the reliability and validity of information.” Rationale: Evaluation refers to the process of assessing the credibility, accuracy, and relevance of information or data. This statement accurately defines evaluation and does not indicate a need for further teaching.

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

Choice A rationale: Impaired physical mobility is a significant concern in Parkinson's disease due to bradykinesia and tremors. However, it does not pose an immediate threat to life when compared to potential airway and respiratory complications.

Choice B rationale: Aspiration is the highest priority according to the ABC (Airway, Breathing, Circulation) framework. Parkinson's causes dysphagia and impaired laryngeal reflexes, making silent aspiration and subsequent pneumonia a life-threatening risk for the client.

Choice C rationale: Constipation is common due to decreased GI motility and side effects of dopaminergic medications. While it causes discomfort and potential impaction, it is a physiological need that ranks lower than respiratory safety.

Choice D rationale: Self-care deficits in hygiene and dressing affect the client's quality of life and independence. In the hierarchy of care, these functional limitations are addressed only after the client's physical safety and airway are secured.

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