A nurse is caring for a client who follows a lacto-vegetarian diet. Which of the following food choices should the nurse recommend?

Choice A Reason:

Stomach contents are yellowish-green in color is incorrect. While the color of stomach contents might indicate various aspects of digestion or bile presence, a yellowish-green color alone might not necessarily be an immediate cause for concern unless accompanied by other symptoms or indications of a problem.

Choice B Reason:

Aspirated stomach contents' pH measures 6.5 is incorrect. A pH of 6.5 in aspirated stomach contents might indicate a less acidic environment, but it's not usually considered significantly abnormal. However, it's still essential to consider the context and the individual client's situation when interpreting pH values.

Choice C Reason:

Residual volume of stomach contents measures 90 mL is correct. A residual volume of 90 mL is considered high and could indicate delayed gastric emptying or potential issues with the client's ability to tolerate or absorb feedings. Reporting this finding to the provider is essential for further assessment and potential adjustments in the client's care plan.

Choice D Reason:

Hyperactive bowel sounds are present is incorrect. Hyperactive bowel sounds might suggest increased peristalsis or bowel activity. While this finding may be noted and monitored, it might not require immediate reporting unless it's associated with other concerning symptoms or complications.

Choice A Reason:

The stoma bleeds lightly when touched is incorrect. Some minor bleeding during the initial postoperative period is expected due to surgical trauma. Light bleeding when touched might not be unusual in the immediate days following colostomy placement.

Choice B Reason:

The stoma appears dark in color is correct. A dark-colored stoma could indicate compromised blood supply or ischemia, which is a concerning finding postoperatively. It's crucial to report this change in color promptly to the provider for further evaluation and intervention.

Choice CReason:

The stoma is draining a small amount of liquid stool is incorrect. In the early postoperative period, drainage of liquid stool from the stoma is normal. The digestive system needs time to adapt to the new anatomy created by the colostomy, and initially, the stool consistency might be liquid before it starts to normalize.

Choice DReason:

The stoma protrudes slightly from the abdomen is incorrect. A slightly protruding stoma is a common and expected finding after colostomy surgery. It's often a normal part of the healing process as the stoma settles and adjusts.