A nurse is caring for a patient who is receiving enteral tube feeding and has a new prescription to dilute the formula.

The nurse recognizes this is being done to resolve which of the following conditions?

Choice A rationale

Dehydration is a common finding in a patient who has had diarrhea for several days. Symptoms of dehydration can include dark-colored urine, excessive thirst, fatigue, dizziness, or light-headedness.

Choice B rationale

Diarrhea does not typically cause decreased bowel sounds.

Choice C rationale

A rigid abdomen is not a typical finding in a patient who has had diarrhea for several days.

Choice D rationale

Hypothermia is not a typical finding in a patient who has had diarrhea for several days.

Choice A rationale

A stoma may appear red and moist immediately after surgery, similar to the inside of the mouth. A purplish color could indicate a lack of blood supply to the stoma, which is a medical emergency.

Choice B rationale

A small amount of bleeding around the stoma is normal, especially when cleaning the area or changing the ostomy appliance. This is because the stoma contains blood vessels and has a rich blood supply.

Choice C rationale

Fecal output from a colostomy can be expected within 2 to 4 days after surgery. It is not typical to see output within 24 hours.

Choice D rationale

An increase in the intake of raw vegetables is not necessary after a colostomy. In fact, some people may find certain raw vegetables difficult to digest and they may cause gas or odor.