A nurse is reinforcing teaching to a newly licensed nurse about bowel sounds.
Which of the following characteristics should the nurse use to describe hyperactive bowel sounds?
Sounds are high-pitched
Can be a result of a paralytic ileus
Indicates decreased motility
Sounds are soft and at a rate of 1/min
The Correct Answer is A
a. Sounds are high-pitched.
Hyperactive bowel sounds are bowel sounds that are louder and more frequent than normal. They may be heard as high-pitched rushing or tinkling sounds that occur irregularly at a rate greater than 5-6 sounds per minute. They are often associated with increased intestinal motility, such as in diarrhea, gastroenteritis, or early bowel obstruction.
Option b is incorrect because hyperactive bowel sounds are not typically associated with a paralytic ileus, which is a condition where the bowel stops working and there is a lack of bowel sounds.
Option c is incorrect because hyperactive bowel sounds indicate increased motility, not decreased motility.
Option d is incorrect because soft bowel sounds at a rate of 1/min are considered hypoactive bowel sounds, which can be a sign of decreased intestinal motility, as seen in constipation or postoperative ileus.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["B","C","D"]
Explanation
It is not appropriate for the nurse to threaten the client's child with reporting for maltreatment without further assessment and evidence.
Asking the client's child to provide details regarding the client's fractured arm will provide additional information about the client's injury and help the nurse assess the potential for abuse or neglect.
Discussing respite care options with the client's child may help alleviate any caregiver stress or burden, and ensure the client's continued care and safety.
Speaking to the client privately will help establish trust and rapport, and allow the client to disclose any
concerns or issues that they may not feel comfortable sharing in front of their child.
Providing legal advice regarding power of attorney is not within the scope of nursing practice and should be referred to a legal professional. Additionally, the client's capacity to make decisions and appoint a power of attorney should be assessed before providing such advice.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
To accurately assess the client's respirations, the nurse should observe the movements of the client's chest wall. This can be done by visually inspecting the rise and fall of the chest or by placing a hand on the client's chest to feel the movements. This allows the nurse to assess the depth, rhythm, and effort of the client's breathing. I
It is important to observe the client's respirations without informing them, as this may cause the client to alter their breathing pattern consciously.
Counting the client's respirations for a full minute (rather than 15 seconds) provides a more accurate measurement.
Placing the client in a supine position may not be necessary for assessing respirations, as it is primarily focused on observing the chest movements.
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