A client is diagnosed with a large bowel obstruction. Which assessment findings by the nurse would be expected?

Abdominal distention

Hypoactive bowel sounds

Diarrhea

Fever

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is A

Choice A Reason:
Abdominal distention is a common finding in large bowel obstruction due to the accumulation of intestinal contents, gas, and fluid proximal to the obstruction site. This can lead to a visibly swollen abdomen and is often accompanied by discomfort or pain.

Choice B Reason:
Hypoactive bowel sounds are expected in large bowel obstruction as the peristaltic activity decreases below the point of obstruction. Initially, bowel sounds may be high-pitched or tinkling due to the intestine's attempt to move contents past the obstruction, but as the condition progresses, the sounds become less frequent or even absent.

Choice C Reason:
Diarrhea is not typically associated with large bowel obstruction. In fact, constipation or cessation of stool is a more common symptom. If diarrhea occurs, it may be due to a partial obstruction or the presence of liquid stool that can pass around the blockage.

Choice D Reason:
Fever may indicate a complication of large bowel obstruction, such as ischemia or perforation, leading to infection and inflammation. However, fever is not a primary symptom of uncomplicated large bowel obstruction and should prompt immediate further investigation.

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Choice A Reason:
A side-lying position with the head elevated may provide some comfort but is not the most effective position for reducing the work of breathing in emphysema patients. This position does not maximize lung expansion or aid in the optimal use of respiratory muscles.

Choice B Reason:
The Trendelenburg position, where the body is laid flat on the back with the feet higher than the head, is not recommended for emphysema patients as it can increase the pressure on the diaphragm, making breathing more difficult.

Choice C Reason:
Leaning over the bedside table, often referred to as the tripod position, is beneficial for emphysema patients. This position allows for the optimal use of respiratory muscles and helps to reduce the work of breathing by supporting the arms and allowing the shoulder girdle muscles to assist in the breathing process.

Choice D Reason:
Fowler's position, where the patient is seated with the legs either bent or straight out in front, may not be as effective as the tripod position for emphysema patients. While it does allow for better lung expansion than lying flat, it does not provide the same level of support for the respiratory muscles as leaning forward does.

A. Creatinine level is 0.8 mg/dL. B. Potassium level is 4.2 mEq/L. C. White blood cell count is 9,000 mm³. D. Hemoglobin is 7.1 g/dL.

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

Choice A Reason
A creatinine level of 0.8 mg/dL falls within the normal range for adults, which is typically 0.6 to 1.2 mg/dL for males and 0.5 to 1.1 mg/dL for females. This indicates normal kidney function and is not a cause for immediate intervention post-operatively.

Choice B Reason
A potassium level of 4.2 mEq/L is within the normal range, which is generally between 3.6 and 5.2 mEq/L. This level indicates a stable electrolyte balance and is not a cause for immediate concern following shoulder replacement surgery.

Choice C Reason
A white blood cell (WBC) count of 9,000 mm³ is within the normal range, which typically spans from 4,500 to 11,000 WBCs per mm³. This suggests there is no active infection or inflammation that requires immediate intervention.

Choice D Reason
A hemoglobin level of 7.1 g/dL is considered low, as the normal range for adult males is generally 13.8 to 17.2 g/dL and for adult females is 12.1 to 15.1 g/dL. Low hemoglobin can indicate anemia, which may be due to blood loss during surgery or other underlying conditions. This requires immediate intervention to address potential oxygenation issues and determine the cause of the anemia.

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A client is diagnosed with a large bowel obstruction. Which assessment findings by the nurse would be expected?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A client diagnosed with emphysema states that it is uncomfortable to sit in a semi-Fowler's position. In order to best decrease the work of breathing, the nurse should assist the client to:

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Which data is cause for immediate intervention for a client after a right shoulder replacement?

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

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