A nurse is assessing a client who had a colostomy 24 hrs ago. Which of the following findings is the nurse's priority?
The stoma appears dark purple in color.
The colostomy has had no output.
The client refuses to look at the colostomy.
The client reports a pain level of 6 on a scale from 0 to 10
The Correct Answer is A
A. The stoma appears dark purple in color. This is a priority finding, as it may indicate impaired circulation or necrosis of the stoma tissue. A healthy stoma should appear pink or red and moist. A dark purple or black color requires immediate evaluation.
B. The colostomy has had no output. While it is important to monitor output, it is not unusual for a new colostomy to have minimal or no output in the first 24–48 hours post-op as bowel function returns.
C. The client refuses to look at the colostomy. This is a psychosocial concern and may indicate body image issues or denial, but it is not the most urgent issue in the immediate postoperative period.
D. The client reports a pain level of 6 on a scale from 0 to 10. Pain management is important, but a pain level of 6, while needing intervention, does not take priority over a potential vascular compromise of the stoma.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. The client is voiding at least 250 mL/hr. This amount is excessive and not typical. The expected urine output for an adult is at least 30 mL/hr, so 250 mL/hr could indicate overhydration or diuretic use, which is not expected postoperatively.
B. The client is maintaining bed rest. Early ambulation is encouraged after surgery to prevent complications like deep vein thrombosis and promote recovery. Bed rest 36 hours post-op is not expected unless medically indicated.
C. The client is tolerating clear liquids. After gastric banding, clients typically start with clear liquids and gradually progress to more solid foods. Tolerating clear liquids at 36 hours post-op is an expected and positive finding.
D. The client is consuming 1,000 calories daily. At this stage post-op, calorie intake is significantly restricted, often much lower than 1,000 calories. Intake gradually increases as the diet progresses from liquids to solids.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Social worker. While a social worker can assist with emotional or financial concerns, they are not involved in managing oxygen delivery systems or therapy adherence related to medical devices.
B. Respiratory therapist. The respiratory therapist is the most appropriate team member to consult regarding oxygen delivery methods. They can assess the client’s needs, explain alternatives (e.g., nasal cannula instead of a mask), and help promote comfort and compliance with therapy.
C. Assistive personnel. Assistive personnel can support basic care tasks, but they are not trained to adjust or manage oxygen therapy or address client concerns about medical treatments.
D. Occupational therapist. Occupational therapists assist clients in regaining independence with daily activities, not in managing oxygen therapy. This issue is outside their scope of practice.
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