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?
Assume a position with legs and rectum lower than the stomach.
Use a straw.
Ambulate several times a day.
Drink cold liquids.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale
Assuming a position with legs and rectum lower than the stomach is not typically recommended for managing postoperative abdominal discomfort.
Choice B rationale
Using a straw can actually increase the amount of air swallowed, which can contribute to gas and bloating.
Choice C rationale
Ambulation, or walking, is often recommended after abdominal surgery to help reduce gas buildup and stimulate the digestive system.
Choice D rationale
Drinking cold liquids is not specifically recommended for managing postoperative abdominal discomfort. However, staying hydrated is important
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Absent bowel sounds are not a symptom of GERD. They may indicate a serious condition such as intestinal obstruction or ischemia.
Choice B rationale
An elevated temperature is not a symptom of GERD. It may indicate an infection or other medical condition.
Choice C rationale
A decreased ammonia level is not a symptom of GERD. It may be seen in conditions such as liver disease.
Choice D rationale
Pain relieved by taking antacids is a common symptom of GERD. Antacids work by neutralizing stomach acid, thereby relieving the burning sensation of heartburn.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
While it’s important to prepare for a barium swallow test, maintaining a clear liquid diet 24 hours before the test is not typically required.
Choice B rationale
Drinking plenty of fluids after the test is indeed a correct instruction. The barium used in the test can cause constipation or impacted stool if it does not pass out of the body. Drinking ample fluids helps flush the contrast from the gastrointestinal system.
Choice C rationale
While it’s true that the stool may be discolored after a barium swallow test, it’s more likely to be lighter or white, not black.
Choice D rationale
The barium swallow test does not involve the injection of any dye that would cause a warm feeling. This sensation is more commonly associated with the injection of contrast dye in other types of imaging tests, not a barium swallow.
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