The nurse admits to the clinic a 7-month-old infant whose parents report that the baby has not had a bowel movement in 4 days.
What is the nurse’s best action?

This is because a nutritious diet provides adequate fiber and nutrients for the GI tract, avoiding alcohol prevents dehydration and irritation of the GI mucosa, and cautious use of laxatives prevents dependency and electrolyte imbalance.

Choice A is wrong because caffeine can stimulate the GI motility and cause diarrhea or cramps.

Choice C is wrong because some prescription medications can affect the GI function, such as antibiotics, opioids, or antacids.

Increased fluid intake is good, but not enough to promote optimal GI function.

Vigorous exercise can also cause GI distress or dehydration.

Choice D is wrong because adequate fluid intake is essential for preventing constipation and maintaining hydration.

Exercise can also help with bowel movements and overall health.

Normal ranges for GI function vary depending on the individual, but generally, a person should have at least one bowel movement every 3 days and no more than 3 bowel movements per day.

The stool should be soft, formed, and easy to pass.

Oxygen cannot diffuse rapidly across the membrane to tissues in the eye. Diabetic retinopathy is caused by damage to the blood vessels of the retina, which is the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. This damage can reduce the oxygen supply to the retina and lead to vision problems.

Choice A is wrong because cells in the eye can reproduce normally, but they may not function properly due to high blood sugar levels or lack of oxygen.

Choice B is wrong because diabetic retinopathy does not affect the production of aqueous humor, which is the fluid that fills the front part of the eye.

However, diabetes can cause another eye condition called glaucoma, which is caused by increased pressure from too much aqueous humor.

Choice C is wrong because diabetic retinopathy does not affect the nerve innervations throughout the eye.

However, diabetes can cause another eye condition called diabetic neuropathy, which is caused by damage to the nerves that control eye movement and pupil dilation.