A nurse is caring for an older adult client who has constipation. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Request that the provider prescribe a stool softener.
Add fluid and fiber to the diet.
Promote active range-of-motion activities.
Avoid gas-producing foods.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason: Requesting that the provider prescribe a stool softener is not the best action for the nurse to take, as it may cause dependency, dehydration, or electrolyte imbalance. The nurse should try non-pharmacological interventions first, such as increasing fluid and fiber intake, promoting physical activity, and establishing a regular bowel routine.
Choice B reason: Adding fluid and fiber to the diet is the best action for the nurse to take, as it helps to soften the stool, increase the bulk, and stimulate peristalsis. The nurse should encourage the client to drink at least 2 liters of water per day and eat foods rich in fiber, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
Choice C reason: Promoting active range-of-motion activities is a good action for the nurse to take, as it helps to improve circulation, muscle tone, and bowel motility. The nurse should assist the client to perform exercises that are appropriate for their level of mobility and endurance.
Choice D reason: Avoiding gas-producing foods is not a necessary action for the nurse to take, as it does not directly affect constipation. Gas-producing foods, such as beans, cabbage, and broccoli, may cause bloating and discomfort, but they do not cause or worsen constipation.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Planning to administer insulin to the client is not a relevant action for the nurse to take, as it has no effect on respiratory alkalosis or hyperventilation. Insulin is used to lower blood glucose levels in patients with diabetes or hyperglycemia.
Choice B reason: Having the client breathe into a paper bag is a correct action for the nurse to take, as it helps to increase the carbon dioxide level in the blood and correct the alkalosis. Breathing into a paper bag creates a closed system that recycles the exhaled carbon dioxide and reduces the loss of carbon dioxide from the lungs.
Choice C reason: Planning to administer sodium bicarbonate to the client is not a correct action for the nurse to take, as it can worsen the alkalosis. Sodium bicarbonate is an alkali that can raise the pH of the blood and cause metabolic alkalosis. It is used to treat metabolic acidosis, not respiratory alkalosis.
Choice D reason: Having the client place their head between their knees is not a recommended action for the nurse to take, as it can impair the blood flow to the brain and cause fainting. It can also increase the respiratory rate and decrease the carbon dioxide level in the blood.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: Dry skin is not a sign of respiratory alkalosis. It can be caused by other conditions such as dehydration, eczema, or hypothyroidism.
Choice B reason: Abdominal pain is not a sign of respiratory alkalosis. It can be caused by other conditions such as gastritis, appendicitis, or gallstones.
Choice C reason: Diarrhea is not a sign of respiratory alkalosis. It can be caused by other conditions such as infection, inflammation, or food intolerance.
Choice D reason: Numbness of fingers is a sign of respiratory alkalosis, as it indicates a low level of calcium in the blood (hypocalcemia). Hypocalcemia can result from the alkalosis, as it causes the calcium to bind to proteins and become less available. Numbness of fingers can also affect the toes and lips.
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