A client with gastroenteritis reports severe abdominal pain and signs of dehydration. What action should the nurse take first?

Administer an over-the-counter antidiarrheal medication.

Provide oral rehydration solution (ORS) or IV fluids as indicated.

Suggest increasing intake of high-fiber foods to promote bowel movements.

Advise the client to fast for the next 24 hours to rest the digestive system.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is B

A) Incorrect. Antidiarrheal medications can be considered but are not the first-line treatment for severe cases of gastroenteritis.

B) Correct. Rehydration is the primary intervention for clients with severe abdominal pain and signs of dehydration due to gastroenteritis.

C) Incorrect. Increasing fiber intake is not recommended in the acute phase of gastroenteritis, as it may exacerbate symptoms.

D) Incorrect. Fasting is not recommended in gastroenteritis; rehydration and appropriate nutrition are crucial.

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A) Incorrect. Mild abdominal cramping and bloating are common symptoms of gastroenteritis and may not require immediate intervention.

B) Incorrect. While absence of bowel movements for 24 hours is concerning, it may not be an immediate emergency compared to other options.

C) Correct. The presence of blood in stool or dark, tarry stools indicates potential gastrointestinal bleeding, which requires immediate attention.

D) Incorrect. Nausea and occasional vomiting are common symptoms of gastroenteritis and may not be an immediate concern.

A. "It's safe to use antidiarrheal medications to stop diarrhea right away." B. "You should avoid using antidiarrheal medications, as they can prolong the infection." C. "You can use antidiarrheal medications, but only if prescribed by your healthcare provider." D. "Antidiarrheal medications are only recommended for children, not adults."

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A) Incorrect. While antidiarrheal medications can provide relief, they should be used with caution as they can potentially prolong the infection by preventing the body from expelling the infectious agent.

B) Correct. It's generally recommended to avoid using antidiarrheal medications in cases of infectious gastroenteritis, as they can impede the body's natural defense mechanism of expelling the infectious agent through diarrhea.

C) Incorrect. Antidiarrheal medications may be prescribed by a healthcare provider in specific cases, but they are not recommended as a first-line treatment for infectious gastroenteritis.

D) Incorrect. Antidiarrheal medications can be used in both children and adults, but they should be used with caution and under the guidance of a healthcare provider.

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A client with gastroenteritis reports severe abdominal pain and signs of dehydration. What action should the nurse take first?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A nurse is assessing a client with suspected gastroenteritis. Which finding would be most concerning and require immediate intervention?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A client with gastroenteritis asks the nurse about using over-the-counter antidiarrheal medications. What should the nurse advise?

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

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