A nurse is assessing a client's bowel sounds. At which of the following points in the assessment should the nurse auscultate the client's abdomen?

After palpating the abdomen

Prior to percussing the abdomen

Prior to inspecting the abdomen

After assessing for kidney tenderness

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is B

A.   After palpating the abdomen is not the ideal time to auscultate bowel sounds.
Palpation may stimulate bowel sounds and potentially give a false impression of their presence or absence.
B.   Prior to percussing the abdomen is the correct sequence. Auscultation of bowel sounds should be done before any other abdominal assessment techniques, including percussion or palpation. This allows the nurse to accurately hear any existing bowel sounds without interference.
C.   Prior to inspecting the abdomen is not the ideal time for auscultation. Inspection focuses on visual examination and assessment, which does not involve listening for bowel sounds.
D.   After assessing for kidney tenderness is not the correct timing for auscultating bowel sounds. Assessing for kidney tenderness involves a different aspect of the physical examination and does not influence bowel sound assessment.

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A. Measuring the gastric residual is a common practice before administering enteral feedings. It helps to assess if the client's stomach is emptying properly and if there is any buildup of undigested formula. This is important in identifying delayed gastric emptying, which can lead to complications if not addressed.
B. To remove gastric acid that might cause dyspepsia is not the primary purpose of measuring gastric residual. The main concern is to assess the rate of stomach emptying.
C. To confirm the placement of the NG tube is typically done using other methods, such as pH testing or an X-ray. While aspirating stomach contents through the tube can help confirm placement, it is not the primary purpose of measuring gastric residual.
D. To determine the client's electrolyte balance is not related to the purpose of measuring gastric residual. Electrolyte balance is typically assessed through blood tests and clinical signs and symptoms.

A. Observe the client's respiratory status. B. Monitor intake and output every 8 hr. C. Elevate the head of the client's bed 30° to 45°. D. Check residual volume every 4 to 6 hr.

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A. Observing the client's respiratory status is also important, but it is an ongoing assessment rather than an immediate action.

B. Monitoring intake and output every 8 hours is important for overall fluid balance, but it is not the top priority in this situation.

C. This is crucial to prevent aspiration, which can occur if the feeding formula enters the lungs, leading to pneumonia or other serious complications. Elevating the head of the bed helps keep the esophagus above the stomach, reducing the risk of aspiration.

D. Checking residual volume every 4 to 6 hours is a part of enteral feeding care, but it is not the top priority. Monitoring respiratory status takes precedence due to the potential risk of aspiration.

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A nurse is assessing a client's bowel sounds. At which of the following points in the assessment should the nurse auscultate the client's abdomen?

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

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