A nurse is caring for a client who is postoperative following the placement of a colostomy. Which of the following findings indicates that the colostomy is functioning properly?
Passing of flatus
Stoma is pinkish-red
Tolerating a clear liquid diet
Absent bowel sounds
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason: Passing of flatus is not a reliable indicator of colostomy function, as it can occur even when there is an obstruction or ischemia in the bowel.
Choice B reason: Stoma is pinkish-red is a sign of a healthy and well-perfused colostomy, as it indicates that the blood supply to the bowel segment is adequate and there is no necrosis or infection.
Choice C reason: Tolerating a clear liquid diet is not a specific indicator of colostomy function, as it does not reflect the amount or consistency of the stool output.
Choice D reason: Absent bowel sounds are not a normal finding for a colostomy, as they can indicate a paralytic ileus or a bowel obstruction, which can cause complications such as distension, pain, or perforation.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A: This is incorrect because Sims position is used for clients who have lower back pain, abdominal surgery, or enemas. It is not appropriate for clients who have a closed head injury.
Choice B: This is incorrect because modified Trendelenburg position is used for clients who have hypovolemic shock or poor venous return. It is not appropriate for clients who have a closed head injury.
Choice C: This is correct because semi-Fowler's position is used for clients who have increased intracranial pressure, respiratory distress, or head trauma. It elevates the head and chest to reduce cerebral edema and facilitate breathing.
Choice D: This is incorrect because prone position is used for clients who have acute respiratory distress syndrome, spinal cord injury, or pressure ulcers. It is not appropriate for clients who have a closed head injury.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A: This is incorrect because stool being a dark green color is not a finding that the nurse should report to the provider. Stool from an ileostomy can be dark green, brown, or yellow depending on the diet and fluid intake of the client.
Choice B: This is incorrect because stoma being a cherry red color is not a finding that the nurse should report to the provider. Stoma from an ileostomy should be moist and pink or red, indicating adequate blood supply and healing.
Choice C: This is incorrect because stool containing scant red blood is not a finding that the nurse should report to the provider. Stool from an ileostomy can contain small amounts of blood due to irritation or inflammation of the bowel mucosa.
Choice D: This is correct because stoma retracting into the abdominal wall is a finding that the nurse should report to the provider. Stoma from an ileostomy should protrude slightly above the skin level, allowing for proper drainage and appliance fitting. Stoma retraction can indicate ischemia, obstruction, or peritonitis.
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