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 C
Explanation
A. Keep the head of the bed elevated at 15 degrees.
This is not sufficient for preventing aspiration and ensuring proper digestion. The head of the bed should be elevated at least 30 degrees to reduce the risk of aspiration and promote better digestion of enteral feedings.
B. Place enough formula in the feeding bag to last for 8 hr of continuous feeding: It is recommended to change the feeding formula and bag every 24 hours. Placing formula for an extended period can increase the risk of bacterial growth.
C. Flush the tube with 30 ml of water every 4 hr: Regular flushing of the tube helps maintain patency, prevents clogging, and ensures proper hydration. Flushing every 4 hours is a standard practice for continuous feeding.
D. Change the feeding bag and tubing every 72 hr: Feeding bags and tubing should be changed more frequently, typically every 24 hours, to reduce the risk of infection.
Correct Answer is ["A","B"]
Explanation
A. "I will consume less caffeine and spicy foods."
This statement is correct. Avoiding caffeine and spicy foods can help reduce stomach acid and prevent irritation, which is beneficial for individuals with hiatal hernia.
B. "I will sleep with the head of my bed elevated."
This statement is correct. Elevating the head of the bed can help prevent stomach acid from flowing back into the esophagus while sleeping, reducing symptoms like heartburn.
C. “I will lie down for one-half hour after meals."
This statement is incorrect. It's advisable for individuals with hiatal hernia to remain upright for at least two to three hours after meals to allow gravity to aid digestion and prevent acid reflux.
D. “I will drink less fluid."
This statement is incorrect. Adequate hydration is important for overall health. Drinking water between meals (not during meals) is generally recommended for individuals with hiatal hernia to prevent excess stomach distension during meals.
E. “To gain weight.”
This statement is not directly related to dietary recommendations for hiatal hernia. Weight gain or loss would depend on the individual's overall health goals and is not specific to managing hiatal hernia symptoms.
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.