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. The client does not have respiratory alkalosis because respiratory alkalosis is characterized by a low PaCO2 (less than 35 mm Hg) and a high pH (greater than 7.45).
B. Incorrect. The client does not have metabolic alkalosis because metabolic alkalosis is characterized by a high HCO3 (greater than 26 mEq/L) and a high pH (greater than 7.45).
C. Correct. The client has respiratory acidosis because respiratory acidosis is characterized by a high PaCO2 (greater than 45 mm Hg) and a low pH (less than 7.35).
D. Incorrect. The client does not have metabolic acidosis because metabolic acidosis is characterized by a low HCO3 (less than 22 mEq/L) and a low pH (less than 7.35).
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
- Seizure precautions are measures taken to protect a client who is at risk of having a seizure, which is a sudden and abnormal electrical activity in the brain that can cause changes in behavior, movement, sensation, or consciousness. Seizure precautions include providing a safe environment, monitoring the client's vital signs and neurological status, administering anticonvulsant medications, and documenting the onset, duration, and characteristics of any seizure activity.
- One of the potential complications of a seizure is aspiration, which is the inhalation of foreign material into the lungs, such as saliva, vomit, or food. Aspiration can cause choking, pneumonia, or respiratory distress. To prevent or treat aspiration, the practical nurse (PN) should ensure the ready availability of equipment to perform suctioning of the trachea, which is the tube that connects the mouth and nose to the lungs. Suctioning of the trachea involves inserting a catheter through the nose or mouth into the trachea and applying negative pressure to remove any secretions or debris from the airway.
- Therefore, option A is the correct answer, while options B, C, and D are incorrect.
Option B is incorrect because inserting a urinary catheter is not related to seizure precautions or aspiration prevention.
Option C is incorrect because applying soft restraints may not be necessary or appropriate for a client who requires seizure precautions, as they may interfere with the natural movements of the seizure or cause injury to the client.
Option D is incorrect because inserting a nasogastric tube is not related to seizure precautions or aspiration prevention.
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