A client with obesity is prescribed orlistat for weight loss. The client asks the nurse, "I understand the medication prevents digestion of fat, but what side effects does this cause?" Which of the following responses by the nurse are correct? SELECT ALL THAT APPLY

Oily stools are common, especially when excessive fat is consumed.

Many patients note having an increase of gas and flatus.

Constipation is a common side effect with this medication.

Some patients report the development of fecal incontinence.

This medication doesn't really have any side effects because you can buy it over the counter.

Answer and Explanation

Correct Answer : A,B,D

Choice A reason: Oily stools are common, especially when excessive fat is consumed, because orlistat blocks the absorption of fat in the intestines. The undigested fat is then eliminated in the stool, making it oily, greasy, or foul-smelling.

Choice B reason: Many patients note having an increase of gas and flatus, because orlistat can also interfere with the digestion of carbohydrates and proteins, causing fermentation and gas production in the colon.

Choice C reason: Constipation is not a common side effect with this medication. In fact, orlistat may cause the opposite effect of diarrhea, as the unabsorbed fat can irritate the bowel and increase the motility.

Choice D reason: Some patients report the development of fecal incontinence, because orlistat can cause unpredictable bowel movements and difficulty in controlling the passage of stool, especially if the patient consumes a high-fat diet.

Choice E reason: This medication does have side effects, even though it can be bought over the counter. Orlistat is a prescription-strength drug that can cause serious adverse reactions, such as liver damage, kidney stones, gallbladder problems, and vitamin deficiencies. The over-the-counter version is a lower dose than the prescription one, but it still requires medical supervision and lifestyle changes.

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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.

A. Sudden abdominal pain B. Hyperactive bowel sounds C. Bradycardia D. Decreased blood pressure

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

Choice A reason: Sudden abdominal pain is a sign of gastrointestinal perforation, which is a life-threatening complication of peptic ulcer disease. It occurs when the ulcer erodes through the wall of the stomach or duodenum, causing leakage of gastric contents into the peritoneal cavity. This causes inflammation, infection, and peritonitis.

Choice B reason: Hyperactive bowel sounds are not indicative of gastrointestinal perforation. They may be present in other conditions, such as gastroenteritis, intestinal obstruction, or diarrhea.

Choice C reason: Bradycardia is not indicative of gastrointestinal perforation. It may be caused by other factors, such as vagal stimulation, medication side effects, or cardiac disorders.

Choice D reason: Decreased blood pressure is not indicative of gastrointestinal perforation. It may be a result of other causes, such as hypovolemia, shock, or dehydration.

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A client with obesity is prescribed orlistat for weight loss. The client asks the nurse, "I understand the medication prevents digestion of fat, but what side effects does this cause?" Which of the following responses by the nurse are correct? SELECT ALL THAT APPLY

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A client admitted with acute diverticulitis has experienced a sudden increase in temperature and reports a sudden onset of extreme abdominal tenderness. The nurse's rapid assessment reveals that the client's abdomen is uncharacteristically rigid on palpation. What is the nurse's best response?

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A nurse is caring for a client who has peptic ulcer disease. The nurse should monitor the client for which of the following findings as an indication of gastrointestinal perforation?

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

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