A patient is having trouble defecating into a bedpan while lying in bed. Which action by the nurse would assist the patient in having a successful bowel movement?
Administering laxatives to the patient
Preparing to administer a cleansing enema
Withholding narcotic pain medication for at least 2 hours until the patient had a bowel movement successfully.
Raising the head of the bed to a semi or high Fowler's position
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A Laxatives might be an option, but they should not be the first intervention. Other noninvasive measures should be tried first.
Choice B Administering a cleansing enema is not the first intervention for a patient having
trouble defecating into a bedpan. It is an invasive procedure and should be considered after less invasive measures have been tried.
Choice C Withholding pain medication might lead to unnecessary discomfort for the patient and is not the best approach to promote bowel movements.
Choice D Raising the head of the bed will help the patient assume a more upright position, which can facilitate bowel movement and defecation into the bedpan more effectively.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A Depending on laxatives or stool softeners every day may lead to dependence and can be harmful in the long term. It is not a preferred approach for managing constipation.
Choice B While eating smaller, more frequent meals can aid digestion, it is not the primary strategy for preventing constipation.
Choice C : Increasing dietary fiber intake is an effective way to promote regular bowel
movements and prevent constipation. Gradually increasing fiber intake helps the body adjust to the increased fiber load.
Choice D Adequate fluid intake is important for bowel health, but focusing solely on fluid intake may not be as effective as increasing dietary fiber to prevent constipation.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
The correct answer is choice b. Insert the tip of the enema tube into the rectum pointing towards the umbilicus.
Choice A rationale:
Giving the enema while the patient sits on the toilet is incorrect because it can cause discomfort and does not allow for proper administration of the enema solution.
Choice B rationale:
Inserting the tip of the enema tube into the rectum pointing towards the umbilicus is correct because it follows the natural curvature of the rectum and colon, ensuring effective delivery of the solution.
Choice C rationale:
Having the patient lie on the right side is incorrect. The left lateral position is typically recommended for enema administration as it allows the solution to flow more easily into the sigmoid colon and descending colon.
Choice D rationale:
Chilling the water to a temperature between 75°F and 85°F is incorrect. The enema solution should be warmed to body temperature (around 99°F to 106°F) to avoid causing cramping or discomfort.
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