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 ["C","D","E"]
Explanation
An oral airway can help maintain an open airway during a seizure.
Supplemental oxygen supplies can be used to provide oxygen if the client’s breathing is compromised.
Oral suction equipment can be used to clear secretions from the client’s mouth and prevent aspiration.

Limb restraints: Restraints should not be used during a seizure as they can cause injury.
Blood glucose monitor: While it is important to monitor blood glucose levels in clients with seizures, it is not a priority during a seizure.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
This indicates that the compress has been effective in relieving lower back pain and has not caused any skin irritation or damage.
Choice B is wrong because the ability to concentrate while reading is not directly related to the effectiveness of a warm, moist compress for relieving lower back pain.
Choice C is wrong because vital signs being within the expected reference range does not necessarily indicate that the compress has been effective in relieving lower back pain.
Choice D is wrong because laughing at a television show does not necessarily indicate that the compress has been effective in relieving lower back pain.
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.
