A client with diverticular disease has just returned from a colonoscopy. While conducting an abdominal assessment, the nurse monitors for which of the following as an initial sign of a possible complication of the procedure?
Guarding and rebound tenderness
Nausea and vomiting
Diarrhea
Hyperactive bowel sounds
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason: Guarding and rebound tenderness are signs of peritonitis, which is a serious complication of colonoscopy. Peritonitis is an inflammation of the peritoneum, the membrane that lines the abdominal cavity. It can be caused by perforation or puncture of the colon during the colonoscopy, which allows bacteria and fecal matter to enter the peritoneal space. The nurse should monitor the client for signs of peritonitis, such as abdominal pain, rigidity, fever, and leukocytosis.
Choice B reason: Nausea and vomiting are not specific signs of a complication of colonoscopy. They may be caused by other factors, such as the sedation, the bowel preparation, or the ingestion of food or fluids after the procedure. Nausea and vomiting may also be symptoms of other conditions, such as gastroenteritis, food poisoning, or pregnancy.
Choice C reason: Diarrhea is not a sign of a complication of colonoscopy. Diarrhea may be a normal consequence of the bowel preparation, which involves taking laxatives or enemas to clear the colon before the procedure. Diarrhea may also be caused by other factors, such as the ingestion of food or fluids after the procedure, or the presence of an underlying bowel disorder, such as irritable bowel syndrome or inflammatory bowel disease.
Choice D reason: Hyperactive bowel sounds are not a sign of a complication of colonoscopy. Hyperactive bowel sounds may indicate increased peristalsis, which is the movement of the digestive tract. Hyperactive bowel sounds may be a normal response to the bowel preparation, the ingestion of food or fluids after the procedure, or the stimulation of the colon during the colonoscopy. Hyperactive bowel sounds may also be present in conditions such as diarrhea, gastroenteritis, or intestinal obstruction.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Fried cheese is a food that the nurse will question on the tray for a client with acute gallbladder inflammation. Fried cheese is high in fat, which can trigger or worsen the symptoms of gallbladder disease. Fat can stimulate the contraction of the gallbladder, which can cause pain and inflammation if there are gallstones blocking the bile ducts.
Choice B reason: Green beans are not a food that the nurse will question on the tray for a client with acute gallbladder inflammation. Green beans are low in fat and high in fiber, which can help prevent or reduce the symptoms of gallbladder disease. Fiber can help lower the cholesterol levels in the bile, which can reduce the risk of gallstone formation.
Choice C reason: Grilled chicken breast is not a food that the nurse will question on the tray for a client with acute gallbladder inflammation. Grilled chicken breast is a lean protein source, which can provide essential amino acids for the client's health. Protein can also help maintain the muscle mass and strength of the client, who may have reduced appetite and weight loss due to gallbladder disease.
Choice D reason: Whole grain dinner roll is not a food that the nurse will question on the tray for a client with acute gallbladder inflammation. Whole grain dinner roll is a complex carbohydrate source, which can provide energy and fiber for the client. Carbohydrates can also help balance the acid-base status of the client, who may have metabolic acidosis due to impaired bile secretion and digestion.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: This is not the best response because it does not accurately describe the client's condition. Obstruction is a possible complication of diverticulitis, but it is not indicated by fever and abdominal rigidity. Obstruction is more likely to cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, constipation, and abdominal distension.
Choice B reason: This is not the best response because it can worsen the client's condition. Positioning the client supine and inserting an NG tube are interventions for gastric outlet obstruction, not diverticulitis. An NG tube can increase the risk of infection and perforation in the inflamed colon. Supine position can also increase the pressure on the abdomen and cause more pain and discomfort.
Choice C reason: This is not the best response because it can be harmful to the client. Administering a fleet enema is contraindicated for diverticulitis, as it can cause more inflammation, bleeding, or perforation in the colon. A fleet enema is a type of laxative that contains sodium phosphate and is used to relieve constipation or prepare for colonoscopy.
Choice D reason: This is the best response because it is the most appropriate and urgent action for the client. Contacting the primary provider promptly and reporting these signs of perforation is essential for the client's safety and treatment. Perforation is a life-threatening complication of diverticulitis, where the colon wall ruptures and causes peritonitis, which is inflammation of the abdominal cavity. Perforation can cause symptoms such as fever, abdominal rigidity, tenderness, and rebound pain. Perforation requires immediate surgical intervention and antibiotic therapy.
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