A nurse is caring for a client who is 2 days postoperative from abdominal surgery. The client reports discomfort from abdominal distension and flatus. Which of the following suggestions should the nurse include?
Assume position with legs and rectum lower than the stomach.
Drink cold liquids.
Ambulate several times a day.
Use a straw.
The Correct Answer is C
A. Assume position with legs and rectum lower than the stomach.
Explanation: This position helps gas move through the intestines more effectively, relieving abdominal distension and promoting the passage of flatus. It's a commonly recommended position for patients experiencing discomfort due to abdominal gas.
B. Drink cold liquids.
Explanation: Drinking cold liquids might not directly help with abdominal distension and flatus. Warm liquids, on the other hand, can sometimes promote digestion and relieve gas discomfort.
C. Ambulate several times a day.
Explanation: Ambulation or walking encourages movement in the intestines, aiding in the passage of gas. It also promotes overall bowel function and can help prevent postoperative complications like atelectasis and deep vein thrombosis.
D. Use a straw.
Explanation: Using a straw doesn't have a direct impact on relieving abdominal distension or flatus. It's more relevant for patients who might have difficulty drinking directly from a glass due to medical conditions or after certain types of surgeries
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. "Do you take any recreational drugs?"
This question is related to the risk of hepatitis transmission through the sharing of needles or other drug paraphernalia. Hepatitis B and C can be transmitted through contaminated needles used for injecting drugs.
B. "Did you have a blood transfusion recently?"
This question addresses the risk of hepatitis transmission through blood transfusions. While this used to be a significant risk, modern blood screening procedures have greatly reduced this risk. However, it's still a relevant question to understand the client's medical history.
C. "Have you eaten any shellfish lately?"
This question is related to the risk of hepatitis A transmission. Hepatitis A is often transmitted through contaminated food or water. Shellfish from contaminated waters can be a source of hepatitis A infection.
D. "Have you traveled to a third world country in the past two months?"
This question is crucial because hepatitis A is often more prevalent in developing countries and can be contracted through contaminated food, water, or poor sanitation. Travel history can help identify possible exposure sources.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. A nephrostomy tube to a drainage bag:
A nephrostomy tube drains urine from the kidney to a drainage bag. While it's essential for urinary drainage, it doesn't lead to significant potassium loss, as potassium is primarily excreted through the urine.
B. An NG tube to suction:
An NG tube (Nasogastric tube) is inserted through the nose into the stomach. When connected to suction, it can remove stomach contents, including gastric acid and potassium. Excessive suctioning can lead to significant potassium loss, potentially causing hypokalemia.
C. An indwelling urinary catheter to gravity drainage:
An indwelling urinary catheter drains urine from the bladder into a drainage bag by gravity. While potassium can be found in urine, the drainage through a catheter does not cause significant potassium loss unless there are underlying kidney issues, which are not specified in this scenario.
D. A chest tube to water-seal drainage:
A chest tube removes air or fluid from the pleural space around the lungs. While chest tubes are vital for lung expansion, they don't result in significant potassium loss as they are not connected to body fluids rich in potassium, like gastric acid or urine.
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.