A nurse is caring for a patient who is 2 days postoperative from abdominal surgery.
The patient reports discomfort from abdominal distension and flatus. Which of the following suggestions should the nurse include?

Choice A rationale
It is a good practice to change the batteries in smoke detectors annually to ensure they are working properly. This statement does not indicate a need for further instruction.
Choice B rationale
Using a walker when going upstairs can be dangerous due to the risk of falls. It is recommended that individuals use handrails or assistance when navigating stairs, not a walker. This statement indicates that the client needs further instruction.
Choice C rationale
Leaving a night light on can help prevent falls by providing visibility during the night. This statement does not indicate a need for further instruction.
Choice D rationale

Installing grab bars in the bathroom, especially near the toilet and in the shower, can provide support and prevent falls. This statement does not indicate a need for further instruction.

Choice A rationale
High hemoglobin is not typically a symptom of a perforated peptic ulcer. Hemoglobin is a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen. While changes in hemoglobin levels can indicate various health conditions, they are not directly associated with a perforated peptic ulcer.
Choice B rationale
Yellowing of the skin, or jaundice, is a symptom typically associated with liver disease, not a perforated peptic ulcer. Jaundice occurs when there’s too much bilirubin, a yellow-orange substance, in your blood.
Choice C rationale
Acute, sharp, and severe abdominal pain is a common symptom of a perforated peptic ulcer. A perforated peptic ulcer is a medical emergency that occurs when an ulcer goes through all the layers of the stomach or duodenum wall, creating a hole. This allows stomach or intestinal contents to leak into the abdominal cavity, causing severe abdominal pain.

Choice D rationale
High hematocrit is not typically a symptom of a perforated peptic ulcer. Hematocrit is the proportion of your total blood volume that is composed of red blood cells. While changes in hematocrit levels can indicate various health conditions, they are not directly associated with a perforated peptic ulcer. Dumping syndromeDumping syndrome Explore