The home care nurse is assessing a client's abdomen 4 weeks after a colostomy in the descending colon was created. What are the expected findings of the a healthy client's abdominal assessment?
(SELECT ALL THAT APPLY)
stoma is shiny and moist
stoma is deep pink
peristomal skin is not reddened or tender
abdomen flat
bowel sounds present 8 to 10 clicks/gurgles per minute
Correct Answer : A,B,C,D,E
A. A healthy stoma should appear moist and shiny, indicating adequate blood supply and hydration of the tissue. Dryness or dullness of the stoma may indicate poor blood flow or dehydration and should be further evaluated.
B. A healthy stoma typically appears deep pink to red in color, indicating good tissue perfusion. Pallor or cyanosis of the stoma may indicate inadequate blood supply and should be assessed promptly.
C. The skin around the stoma, known as the peristomal skin, should be intact, without signs of irritation, redness, or tenderness. Irritation or breakdown of the peristomal skin can occur due to leakage of stool or irritation from ostomy appliances and should be addressed promptly to prevent skin complications.
D. A flat abdomen suggests normal abdominal contour without distention or bulging. Distention or bulging of the abdomen may indicate underlying issues such as bowel obstruction, gas accumulation, or fluid retention and should be assessed further.
E. Bowel sounds are indicative of gastrointestinal motility and function. Normal bowel sounds are present and audible in healthy individuals and are characterized by 8 to 10 clicks or gurgles per minute. Absence or abnormal bowel sounds may indicate bowel obstruction, ileus, or other gastrointestinal disorders and should be assessed further.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Changing the client's arm position, such as raising or lowering it, could potentially improve flow by altering the gravitational pull on the IV solution. For example, raising the arm could increase flow due to increased pressure, while lowering it could decrease flow. However, this approach may not always be effective and should be done cautiously to avoid discomfort or compromising the integrity of the IV site.
B. Using an infusion pump can help regulate the flow rate of the IV solution more accurately compared to gravity alone. However, if the IV is running slowly due to factors unrelated to the infusion rate setting, such as a partial blockage or resistance in the IV line, using an infusion pump may not necessarily improve the flow rate.
C. Lowering the height of the IV pole can increase the gravitational force acting on the IV solution, potentially improving flow. This adjustment can help overcome minor obstructions in the IV line and facilitate better flow. However, it should be done cautiously to avoid excessive pressure on the IV site or causing discomfort to the client.
D. Opening the clamp fully for an extended period is not a recommended approach. It could lead to rapid infusion or an excessive flow rate, increasing the risk of complications such as fluid overload or vein irritation. Additionally, this action does not address the underlying reason for the slow flow rate and may not effectively resolve the issue.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
B. A PICC line is a long, flexible catheter inserted into a peripheral vein, typically in the upper arm, and advanced until the tip lies in the superior vena cava or the cavoatrial junction. PICC lines are suitable for long-term venous access and are often used for administering medications, including antibiotics, over several weeks or months. They offer stable and reliable access, reducing the need for frequent venipunctures.
A. Butterfly needles are typically used for short-term venous access, such as for blood draws or administering medications that do not require long-term therapy. They are not suitable for prolonged use or for administering medications over several weeks, as they are not designed for secure and stable access over an extended period.
C. A peripheral IV-lock, also known as a saline lock or heplock, is a short catheter inserted into a peripheral vein and then capped off for intermittent use. While peripheral IV-locks are suitable for short-term venous access, they are not ideal for prolonged therapy lasting several weeks. Additionally, they may not provide the necessary stability and reliability for administering IV antibiotics over an extended period.
D. A small gauge peripheral angiocath refers to a short catheter inserted into a peripheral vein for intravenous access. While a larger gauge catheter, such as a 16-gauge, may allow for faster infusion rates and is suitable for certain situations requiring rapid fluid administration, it may not be the most appropriate choice for long-term IV antibiotic therapy. The choice of gauge depends on factors such as the client's vein size, the viscosity of the medication, and the duration of therapy.
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