A nurse is preparing to administer a bisacodyl suppository to a client. Which of the following actions should the nurse take? (Select all that apply)
Don sterile gloves.
Position the client supine with knees bent.
Use a rectal applicator for insertion.
Insert the suppository just beyond the internal sphincter.
Lubricate the index finger.
Correct Answer : D,E
Choice A reason:
Don sterile gloves: While it is important to maintain cleanliness, sterile gloves are not necessary for administering a suppository. Clean, non-sterile gloves are sufficient to prevent infection and ensure hygiene.
Choice B reason:
Position the client supine with knees bent: The correct position for administering a suppository is the left lateral (Sims) position, not supine with knees bent. The left lateral position allows for easier access to the rectum and helps the suppository stay in place.
Choice C reason:
Use a rectal applicator for insertion: Suppositories are typically inserted using a gloved finger, not a rectal applicator. The gloved finger allows for better control and ensures the suppository is placed correctly.
Choice D reason:
Insert the suppository just beyond the internal sphincter: This is correct. The suppository should be inserted past the internal sphincter to ensure it stays in place and can dissolve properly. This placement helps the medication to be absorbed effectively.
Choice E reason:
Lubricate the index finger: Lubricating the index finger is essential to make the insertion process smoother and more comfortable for the client. It helps prevent trauma to the rectal mucosa and ensures the suppository is inserted easily.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason:
A sudden decrease in abdominal pain can indicate that the appendix has perforated. When the appendix bursts, the pressure is relieved, leading to a temporary reduction in pain. However, this is quickly followed by severe pain and signs of peritonitis, such as a rigid abdomen and high fever.
Choice B reason:
The absence of Rovsing’s sign is not a specific indicator of a perforated appendix. Rovsing’s sign is a clinical test used to diagnose appendicitis, where pain is elicited in the right lower quadrant when the left lower quadrant is palpated. Its absence does not necessarily indicate perforation.
Choice C reason:
A low-grade fever is a common symptom of appendicitis but does not specifically indicate perforation. A perforated appendix typically leads to a high fever due to the spread of infection within the abdomen.
Choice D reason:
A rigid abdomen is a sign of peritonitis, which can occur after the appendix has perforated. While this is an important symptom, the sudden decrease in pain followed by severe symptoms is more indicative of perforation.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Promoting oral hygiene is important for preventing infection and maintaining overall health, especially after surgery involving the mouth. However, it is not the immediate priority in the postoperative period.
Choice B reason:
Ensuring adequate nutrition is crucial for healing and recovery, but it is not the most urgent concern immediately after surgery. Nutritional needs can be addressed once the client is stable and the risk of complications has been minimized.
Choice C reason:
Preventing aspiration is the priority action. After surgery for a fractured mandible with intermaxillary fixation, the client is at high risk for aspiration due to the inability to open the mouth and clear secretions effectively. Aspiration can lead to serious complications such as pneumonia, making it the most critical concern.

Choice D reason:
Relieving the client’s pain is important for comfort and recovery, but it is not the highest priority immediately after surgery. Pain management should be addressed once the client’s airway and breathing are secure.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.
