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 B
Explanation
Use a reward system to modify the child's behavior.
Rationale:
- A. Incorrect. Maintaining a flexible daily schedule for the child may increase their anxiety and confusion, as they may have difficulty adapting to changes in routine and expectations. The nurse should advise the parents to establish a consistent and structured schedule for the child, with clear rules and boundaries.
- B. Correct. Using a reward system to modify the child's behavior is an effective strategy to reinforce positive behaviors and reduce negative ones. The nurse should help the parents identify specific and measurable goals for the child, and provide them with praise, tokens, or privileges when they achieve them.
- C. Incorrect. Providing a variety of family members to care for the child may overwhelm them and impair their social skills development, as they may have difficulty forming attachments and communicating with different people. The nurse should encourage the parents to select one or two primary caregivers for the child, who can provide them with consistent and supportive interactions.
- D. Incorrect. Administering alprazolam as needed to reduce the child's anxiety is not recommended, as it may cause adverse effects such as sedation, dependence, or withdrawal symptoms. The nurse should educate the parents about nonpharmacological interventions for anxiety, such as relaxation techniques, cognitive behavioral therapy, or social skills training.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Assign the client to a private room with negative air pressure.
Rationale:
- A. Incorrect. Restricting fresh flowers from the client's room is not necessary for infection control purposes. However, some clients with pulmonary tuberculosis may have hypersensitivity reactions to certain plants or flowers, so the nurse should assess the client's allergies before allowing them in the room.
- B. Incorrect. Maintaining a distance of 1.8 m (6 feet) from the client is not sufficient to prevent transmission of tuberculosis. Visitors should also wear a HEPA respirator and limit their contact time with the client.
- C. Incorrect. A surgical mask is not adequate to protect the nurse from inhaling airborne droplet nuclei that contain Mycobacterium tuberculosis. The nurse should wear a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) respirator when providing client care.
- D. Correct. Assigning the client to a private room with negative air pressure is the most effective way to prevent the spread of tuberculosis to other clients and staff members. The room should have at least six air exchanges per hour and an exhaust system that vents directly to the outside.
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