A nurse caring for a client with acute peritonitis reviews the physician's orders. The orders include an NPO diet, insertion of a nasogastric tube set to low intermittent suction, and IV fluids at 50 mL per hour. When asked why he will need the NG tube, what is the nurse's best reply?

Choice A Reason: This is incorrect because administering medications and electrolytes is not the primary purpose of inserting a nasogastric tube for a client with acute peritonitis. Medications and electrolytes can be given through other routes, such as IV or oral.

Choice B Reason: This is incorrect because dilating the stomach as a presurgical preparation is not a relevant Reason for inserting a nasogastric tube for a client with acute peritonitis. Dilating the stomach may be done before some types of gastric surgery, but it does not apply to peritonitis.

Choice C Reason: This is incorrect because stating that you will not be able to eat for several days is not an adequate explanation for inserting a nasogastric tube for a client with acute peritonitis. This statement does not address the rationale or the benefits of the procedure. It may also cause anxiety and resentment in the client.

Choice D Reason: This is the correct choice because removing secretions and decompressing the stomach is the main Reason for inserting a nasogastric tube for a client with acute peritonitis. Peritonitis is an inflammation of the peritoneum, the membrane that lines the abdominal cavity. It can cause abdominal distension, pain, nausea, and vomiting. A nasogastric tube can suction out the gastric contents and reduce the pressure and irritation in the abdomen.

Choice A Reason: This is incorrect because dimming the lights in the client's room is not a helpful action for providing discharge teaching for a client who has hearing loss. Dimming the lights can reduce the visibility and clarity of the nurse's facial expressions, gestures, and lip movements, which can aid in communication.

Choice B Reason: This is incorrect because increasing the rate of speech when talking with the client is not an effective action for providing discharge teaching for a client who has hearing loss. Increasing the rate of speech can make it harder for the client to follow and understand what the nurse is saying.

Choice C Reason: This is incorrect because answering client's questions using medical terminology is not an appropriate action for providing discharge teaching for a client who has hearing loss. Medical terminology can be confusing and unfamiliar to the client, which can impair comprehension and learning.

Choice D Reason: This is the correct choice because facing the client while talking is an important action for providing discharge teaching for a client who has hearing loss. Facing the client can enhance eye contact, attention, and rapport. It can also allow the client to see the nurse's facial expressions, gestures, and lip movements, which can facilitate communication.