A nurse is caring for a client who is 2 days postoperative following bowel resection and reports sudden, severe abdominal pain.
Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?
Expose the client's abdomen to look for changes in appearance.
Determine areas of resonance across the abdomen using a systematic approach.
Use the diaphragm of a stethoscope to listen for bowel sounds.
Perform abdominal palpation by pressing gently with the finger pads.
The Correct Answer is A
After postoperative surgery, chances of infections are very high also discharges, color changes, etc.
So it is important to expose the client’s abdomen to look for changes in appearance.

Choice B is not the answer because determining areas of resonance across the abdomen using a systematic approach is not the first action that should be taken 1.
Choice C is not the answer because using the diaphragm of a stethoscope to listen for bowel sounds is not the first action that should be taken 1.
Choice D is not the answer because performing abdominal palpation by pressing gently with the finger pads is not the first action that should be taken 1.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
When administering multiple medications via an NG tube, each medication should be prepared separately by crushing (if appropriate) and diluting it with sterile water. This method helps prevent drug interactions, ensures that medications are adequately dissolved, and minimizes the risk of clogging the tube.

Choice B is wrong because medications should not be combined with the formula in the feeding bag.
Choice C is wrong because the NG tube should be flushed with at least 15 to 30 mL of water before and after drug delivery.
Choice D is wrong because each medication should be administered separately when it is being given at the same time.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Gastric residual of 300 mL at the end of the shift is an unexpected finding.
Gastric residual volume refers to the volume of fluid remaining in the stomach during enteral feeding.
A gastric residual volume of less than or equal to 500 mL every 6 hours is considered safe and indicates that the gastrointestinal tract is functioning.

Choice B is wrong because weight gain is expected during enteral feeding.
Choice C is wrong because a blood glucose level of 110 mg/dL is within the normal range.
Choice D is wrong because diarrhea can be a common side effect of enteral feeding.
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