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 D
Explanation
Choice A reason: Maintaining the client on bed rest is not an appropriate action, as it can increase the risk of thromboembolism, infection, or atelectasis after surgery. The nurse should encourage early ambulation and exercise as tolerated by the client.
Choice B reason: Decreasing the client's fluid intake is not an appropriate action, as it can cause dehydration, constipation, or impaired wound healing after surgery. The nurse should encourage adequate hydration and nutrition to promote recovery and drainage.
Choice C reason: Applying cold compresses to the site is not an appropriate action, as it can cause vasoconstriction, inflammation, or pain at the site. The nurse should apply warm compresses to the site to facilitate drainage and reduce swelling.
Choice D reason: Placing the right leg in a dependent position is an appropriate action, as it can promote gravity-assisted drainage from the site and prevent fluid accumulation or infection. The nurse should place the drain below the level of the wound and secure it to prevent dislodgment or tension.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: Discarding soiled wound care supplies in a trash receptacle outside the client's room is not an appropriate action. The nurse should dispose of contaminated materials in a biohazard container inside the client's room to prevent the spread of infection.
Choice B reason: Administering antibiotic therapy before culturing the client's wound is not an appropriate action. The nurse should obtain a wound culture before starting antibiotic therapy to ensure accurate results and avoid altering the microorganisms present in the wound.
Choice C reason: Instructing visitors to perform hand hygiene for 15 seconds after leaving the client's room is not an appropriate action. The nurse should instruct visitors to perform hand hygiene for at least 20 seconds before and after entering the client's room to reduce the risk of transmitting infection.
Choice D reason: Placing the client in a private room with a private bathroom is an appropriate action. The nurse should implement contact precautions for a client who has an infectious wound with foul-smelling drainage to prevent cross-contamination and protect other clients and staff from exposure.
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