A client with a history of inflammatory bowel disease develops severe ulcerative colitis and is admitted to the intensive care unit after surgery for a fistula repair.
Which intervention is most important for the nurse to include in the plan of care?
Turn every 2 hours around the clock from side-to-side.
Assess skin condition and turgor for breakdown.
Record the amount of daily wound drainage.
Replace fluids IV based on intake and output.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice D rationale
In a patient with severe ulcerative colitis who has undergone surgery for a fistula repair, replacing fluids IV based on intake and output is the most important intervention to include in the plan of care. This is because patients with ulcerative colitis often experience significant fluid and electrolyte imbalances due to diarrhea and other gastrointestinal losses. Following surgery, these imbalances can be further exacerbated by factors such as fasting, surgical stress, and the use of certain medications. Therefore, careful monitoring of fluid and electrolyte balance, and appropriate IV fluid replacement, is crucial to prevent complications such as dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and renal dysfunction.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","D","F"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Assisting the client to the bathroom is appropriate as clonazepam can cause dizziness and unsteadiness, increasing the risk of falls.
Choice B rationale
Having an opioid agonist at the bedside is not necessary for a client starting clonazepam. Clonazepam is a benzodiazepine, not an opioid.
Choice C rationale
Providing oral care at least twice a day is generally good practice for all patients, but it’s not specifically related to clonazepam use.
Choice D rationale
Assessing mental status regularly is crucial as clonazepam can cause changes in mood and behavior.
Choice E rationale
Monitoring calcium levels is not typically required for a client starting clonazepam.
Choice F rationale
Screening for orthostatic hypotension is important as clonazepam can lower blood pressure, leading to dizziness and fainting when the client stands up.
Correct Answer is ["A","B","D"]
Explanation
.Administer a stool softener: This could be a good option to consider, as the client has not had a bowel movement since the surgery. However, the nurse should first consult with the healthcare provider before administering any new medications.
B.Ask the client about their normal bowel routine: This is a good action to take. Understanding the client’s normal bowel routine can provide valuable context for the current situation.
C.Hold the client’s next meal: This may not be necessary at this point. The client’s regular diet has been ordered by the provider, and there’s no indication of nausea, vomiting, or other symptoms that would necessitate holding meals.
D.Perform a digital rectal exam: This could be considered if there’s a concern about impaction or other complications. However, this should only be done after consulting with the healthcare provider.
E.Discontinue morphine: This is not advisable based on the information provided. The client is reporting uncontrolled pain, and morphine has been ordered by the provider for pain management. Any changes to pain medication should be discussed with the healthcare provider.
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