A patient who is scheduled for a barium swallow asks a nurse why a laxative is necessary after the procedure. Which of the following responses should the nurse make?
It helps eliminate the barium.
The medication has been prescribed by your provider.
The medication will turn your stool white.
It is the protocol at this facility.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale
A laxative is necessary after a barium swallow procedure because barium can cause constipation or impacted stool if it isn’t completely cleared from the body. The laxative helps to ensure that all of the barium leaves the body.
Choice B rationale
While it’s true that the medication has been prescribed by the provider, this doesn’t explain why it’s necessary after a barium swallow procedure.
Choice C rationale
The medication will not turn the stool white. However, the barium used in the procedure can cause the stool to be lighter in color until it’s completely passed from the body.
Choice D rationale
The use of a laxative after a barium swallow is not just a protocol at the facility, but a medical necessity to prevent constipation or impacted stool caused by the barium
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
High-fat meals can exacerbate symptoms of gallbladder disease or pancreatitis, but they are not typically associated with peptic ulcer disease.
Choice B rationale
Relief of pain after a bowel movement is more indicative of conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome or inflammatory bowel disease, not peptic ulcer disease.
Choice C rationale
Peptic ulcer disease is characterized by a gnawing or burning pain that can be relieved by eating. This is because food neutralizes the stomach acid temporarily. However, the pain often returns after the food has been digested.
Choice D rationale
Pain radiating to the lower back can be a symptom of conditions such as pancreatitis or gallstones, but it is not typically associated with peptic ulcer disease.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Increasing fluid intake after a barium swallow test is recommended. This helps to flush the barium out of the system and can help to prevent constipation.
Choice B rationale
Stools will not be normal in color after a barium swallow test. It is normal for bowel movements to appear lighter in color, or even white, after a barium study.
Choice C rationale
The barium swallow test does examine the esophagus, stomach, duodenum, and jejunum. The barium coats the lining of these organs, making them easier to see on an X-ray.
Choice D rationale
Patients may need to take laxatives to prevent constipation from the barium. Barium can slow down the digestive system, so taking a laxative can help to keep things moving.
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