The nurse is caring for a client on the third day following abdominal surgery and assesses the absence of bowel sounds, abdominal distention, and the client passing no flatus. These findings indicate the client is experiencing which of the following postoperative complications?
Fecal impaction
Incisional infection
Health care-associated Clostridium difficile
Paralytic ileus
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A reason: Fecal impaction typically presents with the inability to pass stool and may not be associated with the absence of bowel sounds.
Choice B reason: Incisional infection is usually indicated by localized redness, warmth, and possible discharge, not necessarily by the absence of bowel sounds or flatus.
Choice C reason: Health care-associated Clostridium difficile often presents with diarrhea, not the absence of bowel sounds or flatus.
Choice D reason: Paralytic ileus is characterized by impaired intestinal motility and transit, absence of the passage of flatus, diminished bowel sounds, abdominal distension, and intestinal dilatation, fitting the symptoms described.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: Instructing the patient to wear constrictive clothing is incorrect, as it can worsen venous stasis ulcers by impeding blood flow.
Choice B reason: Encouraging the patient to keep legs in a dependent position is not recommended, as elevation helps in reducing venous pressure.
Choice C reason: Frequent ambulation is encouraged to promote blood circulation and prevent stasis.
Choice D reason: Applying compression stockings is a standard care practice to help reduce venous pressure and prevent fluid from pooling in the legs.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Unconsciousness is not typically a finding in the early compensatory stage of hypovolemic shock; it may occur in more advanced stages.
Choice B reason: Tachycardia, or rapid heartbeat, is a compensatory mechanism to maintain cardiac output during the early stages of hypovolemic shock.
Choice C reason: Cold clammy skin is a result of peripheral vasoconstriction, which is a compensatory response to maintain blood flow to vital organs.
Choice D reason: Diminished urine output occurs as the body conserves fluid in response to decreased blood volume.
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