A patient has been brought to the emergency department with abdominal pain and is subsequently diagnosed with appendicitis. The patient is scheduled for an appendectomy but questions the nurse about how his health will be affected by the absence of an appendix. How should the nurse best respond?
"Your large intestine will adapt over time to the absence of your appendix."
"Your appendix doesn't play a major role, so you won't notice any difference after you recover from surgery."
"Your body will absorb slightly fewer nutrients from the food you eat, but you won't be aware of this."
"The surgeon will encourage you to limit your fat intake for a few weeks after the surgery, but your body will then begin to compensate."
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason:
This statement may not be entirely accurate. While other parts of the digestive system can compensate to some extent, the primary function of the appendix is not related to the large intestine's adaptation.
Choice B reason:
This is the correct answer. The appendix is considered a vestigial organ, meaning it doesn't have a major function in humans. Its removal typically doesn't lead to noticeable changes in overall health or digestion.
Choice C reason:
While the appendix does have some immune functions, the impact on nutrient absorption is minimal, and its removal is unlikely to lead to a significant difference in nutrient absorption.
Choice D reason:
Limiting fat intake after surgery is not a standard recommendation following an appendectomy. The statement may cause unnecessary concern for the patient.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason:
IV hydromorphone is an opioid analgesic that can provide effective pain relief and can be titrated to the patient's needs. It's commonly used for severe pain associated with conditions like acute pancreatitis.
Choice B reason:
Oral naproxen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that may be used for pain relief, but it's not the first-line treatment for acute pancreatitis. NSAIDs can potentially worsen the condition due to their effects on the gastrointestinal tract.
Choice C reason:
IM meperidine is an opioid analgesic that can be used for pain relief. However, in severe cases of acute pancreatitis, IV opioids are often preferred for more immediate and precise pain control.
Choice D reason:
Oral oxycodone is another opioid analgesic. However, in cases of acute pancreatitis, especially when pain is severe, IV opioids are often the preferred route of administration for more rapid and reliable pain relief.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason:
This statement may not be entirely accurate. While other parts of the digestive system can compensate to some extent, the primary function of the appendix is not related to the large intestine's adaptation.
Choice B reason:
This is the correct answer. The appendix is considered a vestigial organ, meaning it doesn't have a major function in humans. Its removal typically doesn't lead to noticeable changes in overall health or digestion.
Choice C reason:
While the appendix does have some immune functions, the impact on nutrient absorption is minimal, and its removal is unlikely to lead to a significant difference in nutrient absorption.
Choice D reason:
Limiting fat intake after surgery is not a standard recommendation following an appendectomy. The statement may cause unnecessary concern for the patient.
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