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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A: This is incorrect because pallor is not a sign of anaphylaxis. Pallor can indicate shock, anemia, or hypoxia.
Choice B: This is incorrect because peripheral edema is not a sign of anaphylaxis. Peripheral edema can indicate heart failure, kidney disease, or venous insufficiency.
Choice C: This is incorrect because hypertension is not a sign of anaphylaxis. Hypertension can indicate stress, pain, or renal disease.
Choice D: This is correct because pruritus is a sign of anaphylaxis. Pruritus is a severe itching sensation that can accompany hives, rash, or angioedema.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A: This is incorrect. Potassium 4.0 mEq/L is a normal value and does not indicate heart failure.
Choice B: This is correct. Brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) is a hormone that is released by the heart when it is stretched or overloaded. A high level of BNP indicates that the heart is working harder than normal and may have heart failure. A normal BNP level is less than 100 pg/mL, so 275 pg/mL is elevated and suggestive of heart failure.
Choice C: This is incorrect. Sodium 140 mEq/L is a normal value and does not indicate heart failure.
Choice D: This is incorrect. Calcium 9.0 mg/dL is a normal value and does not indicate heart failure.
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