A nurse is contributing to the plan of care for a client who has an intestinal obstruction and is receiving continuous gastrointestinal decompression using a nasogastric tube. Which of the following interventions should the nurse include in the plan of care?
Maintain the client in Fowler’s position.
Use sterile water to irrigate the nasogastric tube.
Moisten the client’s lips with lemon-glycerin swabs.
Measure abdominal girth daily.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A: Maintain the client in Fowler’s position. This is correct because Fowler’s position, which is a semi-sitting position with the head of the bed elevated 45 to 60 degrees, can facilitate the drainage of gastric contents and reduce the risk of aspiration.
Choice B: Use sterile water to irrigate the nasogastric tube. This is incorrect because sterile water is not necessary to irrigate the nasogastric tube, unless the client is immunocompromised or has a high risk of infection. Tap water or normal saline can be used to irrigate the nasogastric tube, following the provider’s orders or the facility’s protocol.
Choice C: Moisten the client’s lips with lemon-glycerin swabs. This is incorrect because lemon-glycerin swabs can dry out and irritate the client’s lips and oral mucosa, especially if used frequently. The nurse should use water-soluble lubricant or lip balm to moisturize the client’s lips and mouth.
Choice D: Measure abdominal girth daily. This is incorrect because measuring abdominal girth daily is not enough to monitor the progression of the intestinal obstruction and the effectiveness of the gastrointestinal decompression. The nurse should measure abdominal girth more frequently, such as every 4 hr or every shift, and report any changes or abnormalities.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A: Thyroxine (T4) level. This is incorrect because T4 is one of the thyroid hormones that is increased in hyperthyroidism. T4 is produced by the thyroid gland and converted to T3 in the tissues. A high level of T4 indicates overactivity of the thyroid gland.1
Choice B: Triiodothyronine (T3) level. This is incorrect because T3 is another thyroid hormone that is increased in hyperthyroidism. T3 is the more active form of thyroid hormone and regulates the metabolism of cells. A high level of T3 indicates overactivity of the thyroid gland.1
Choice C: Thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) level. This is correct because TSH is a hormone that stimulates the thyroid gland to produce T4 and T3. TSH is produced by the pituitary gland and regulated by a feedback mechanism. When the levels of T4 and T3 are high, the pituitary gland reduces the secretion of TSH to inhibit further production of thyroid hormones. Therefore, a low level of TSH indicates hyperthyroidism.1
Choice D: Glucose level. This is incorrect because glucose level is not directly related to thyroid function. However, hyperthyroidism can affect glucose metabolism and cause increased blood sugar levels due to increased breakdown of glycogen and glucose uptake by cells. Therefore, glucose level may be elevated in some cases of hyperthyroidism, but it is not a specific indicator.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Providing emotional support is important for a client who has ulcerative colitis, as the condition can affect their quality of life and mental health. However, this is not the priority action for a nurse who is caring for a client who is experiencing an acute exacerbation of ulcerative colitis, as it does not address the immediate physical needs of the client.
Choice B reason: Evaluating fluid and electrolyte levels is the priority action for a nurse who is caring for a client who is experiencing an acute exacerbation of ulcerative colitis, as the client is at risk of dehydration, hypovolemia, and electrolyte imbalances due to diarrhea, vomiting, and poor oral intake. The nurse should monitor the client’s vital signs, urine output, weight, skin turgor, mucous membranes, and laboratory values such as serum sodium, potassium, chloride, bicarbonate, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), and creatinine.
Choice C reason: Promoting physical mobility is beneficial for a client who has ulcerative colitis, as it can help prevent complications such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT), pulmonary embolism (PE), and pressure ulcers. However, this is not the priority action for a nurse who is caring for a client who is experiencing an acute exacerbation of ulcerative colitis, as the client may have abdominal pain, fatigue, and weakness that limit their mobility. The nurse should encourage rest and provide comfort measures such as positioning, heat therapy, and analgesics.
Choice D reason: Reviewing stress factors that can cause disease exacerbation is helpful for a client who has ulcerative colitis, as stress can trigger or worsen inflammation in the bowel. However, this is not the priority action for a nurse who is caring for a client who is experiencing an acute exacerbation of ulcerative colitis, as it does not address the immediate physical needs of the client. The nurse should teach the client about stress management techniques and refer them to appropriate resources such as counseling or support groups.
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