A nurse is caring for a client who has a fecal impaction. Which of the following actions should the nurse take when digitally evacuating the stool?
Place the client in the lithotomy position.
Elicit a vagal response by performing gentle rectal stimulation.
Administer oral bisacodyl 30 min prior to the procedure.
Insert a lubricated gloved finger and advance along the rectal wall.
The Correct Answer is D
A. Incorrect. The lithotomy position is not appropriate for this procedure, as it can cause discomfort and embarrassment to the client. The nurse should place the client in a left lateral Sims' position with the right knee flexed for better access to the rectum and to reduce pressure on the abdominal organs.
B. Incorrect. The nurse should avoid eliciting a vagal response, as it can cause bradycardia, hypotension, and syncope in some clients. The nurse should monitor the client's vital signs and stop the procedure if signs of vagal stimulation occur.
C. Incorrect. Oral bisacodyl is a stimulant laxative that can cause abdominal cramping, diarrhea, and electrolyte imbalance. It is not indicated for fecal impaction, as it can worsen the condition by increasing the bulk and hardness of the stool. The nurse should administer an enema or a stool softener before attempting digital evacuation.
D. Correct. The nurse should insert a lubricated gloved finger and advance along the rectal wall, breaking up the stool and removing it in small pieces. The nurse should use gentle pressure and avoid injuring the rectal mucosa. The nurse should also explain the procedure to the client and obtain informed consent before performing it.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Incorrect. HD does not affect the eyes.
B. Incorrect. HD does not affect the respiratory system or cause chest manifestations.
C. Correct. Hirschsprung disease (HD) is a congenital disorder that affects the nerve cells in the colon, causing a lack of peristalsis and bowel obstruction. Infants with HD may have a distended abdomen due to fecal accumulation and gas.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Urine specific gravity is the measurement of the concentration of solutes in urine and is an important indicator of the client's hydration status and kidney function. A specific gravity of 1.035 is relatively high, suggesting concentrated urine. High urine specific gravity can be a sign of dehydration or other kidney-related issues.
Reporting this finding to the provider is crucial because it could indicate potential problems with the client's fluid balance and kidney function. The provider may need to assess further, conduct additional tests, or initiate appropriate interventions to address the client's hydration and renal status.
Choice B reason:
Prealbumin: A prealbumin level of 25 mg/dL is within the normal range (usually 15-35 mg/dL) and may not require immediate reporting to the provider. Prealbumin is used to assess nutritional status, and this result suggests that the client's nutritional status is within the normal range.
Choice C reason:
Temperature: The normal range is 36.5°-37.5°C (97.7°-99.5°F),thus it falls within normal range.
Choice D reason
Bowel sounds: Bowel sounds:Bowel sounds heard is a normal finding and indicates normal gastrointestinal function.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.