A nurse on a pediatric unit is caring for a preschooler who is postoperative following an appendectomy.
Complete the following sentence by using the lists of options.
The child is at risk for developing
The Correct Answer is {"dropdown-group-1":"C","dropdown-group-2":"A","dropdown-group-3":"C"}
- Postoperative ileus: Ileus is a common complication after abdominal surgery due to anesthesia, opioid use, and limited mobility. It presents as delayed return of bowel function, marked by absent bowel sounds and abdominal discomfort. In this case, the child has absent bowel sounds and increasing tenderness, supporting this risk.
- Atelectasis: Atelectasis generally presents with diminished breath sounds and hypoxia, not clear breath sounds. Although the child has shallow respirations and is refusing the incentive spirometer, there are no respiratory findings such as decreased oxygen saturation or adventitious breath sounds that support this condition currently.
- Peritonitis: Peritonitis would present with systemic symptoms like fever, severe abdominal pain, rebound tenderness, or signs of sepsis. The child has mild abdominal tenderness and stable vital signs, which do not indicate peritoneal inflammation at this time.
- Urinary retention: This would be characterized by lack of urination, bladder distension, or discomfort—none of which are noted in the scenario. The child’s urinary output and bladder status are not identified as concerns, making this diagnosis unlikely.
- Absent bowel sounds: This is a key clinical sign of ileus. After surgery, bowel activity should return gradually. Continued absence of sounds, especially along with abdominal tenderness, strongly indicates impaired gastrointestinal motility.
- Shallow respirations: While shallow breathing is often a contributing factor to respiratory complications, in the context of abdominal surgery, it also limits diaphragmatic movement, which can further suppress bowel activity and contribute to postoperative ileus.
- Clear breath sounds: This is a normal respiratory finding and does not support the presence of atelectasis or other pulmonary complications. It suggests that lung fields are adequately ventilated despite shallow breathing.
- Intact abdominal dressing: This is an expected postoperative finding and does not support a diagnosis of infection, wound complication, or ileus. It indicates proper surgical wound healing.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. "I will hang a new bag of TPN and IV tubing every 24 hours." This is the correct action. TPN solutions are high in glucose and lipids, which create an ideal environment for bacterial growth. Changing the bag and tubing every 24 hours reduces the risk of infection and sepsis, especially in clients with central lines.
B. "I will obtain the client's weight every other day." Weight should be monitored daily in clients receiving TPN to assess for fluid status, nutritional progress, and potential complications like fluid overload or retention.
C. "I will monitor the client's blood glucose level every 8 hours." Clients receiving TPN require more frequent glucose monitoring, typically every 4 to 6 hours, especially when therapy is initiated, due to the high dextrose content that can cause hyperglycemia.
D. “I will increase the rate of the TPN infusion to ensure the correct amount is given." TPN infusion rates should never be adjusted independently by a nurse. Changes must be made only with a provider’s order, as improper rate adjustments can lead to electrolyte imbalances, hyperglycemia, or fluid overload.
Correct Answer is ["B","C","E"]
Explanation
A. The client engages in quiet activities in their room. While this may seem positive, it is not a reliable indicator of improvement in this context. It could suggest withdrawal or sedation rather than clinical stabilization. Further assessment would be needed to determine its significance.
B. The client slept 5 hr the previous night. This is a clear sign of improvement. The client had not slept for 2 days previously, and sleep is one of the first indicators of recovery in clients experiencing mania. Restorative sleep helps stabilize mood and reduce disorganized thinking.
C. The client takes 2 short naps during the day. Napping indicates the client is able to rest voluntarily, which contrasts with their earlier constant movement and hyperactivity. This suggests reduced mania-related agitation and increased capacity for rest.
D. The client appears to listen to unseen others. This behavior reflects ongoing hallucinations, which indicate that the client is still experiencing active psychosis. This is not an improvement and suggests further monitoring and treatment adjustment may be needed.
E. The client consumes 8 oz of high-calorie fluids each hour. Adequate nutrition and hydration are key components of recovery, especially since the client had been unable to recall their last meal and showed signs of dehydration. This is a positive sign of improved self-care and physical stability.
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