The nurse is providing care for a client with a recent transverse colostomy. Which observation requires immediate notification of the primary health care provider?
Soft pasty stool is noted in the collection device
There is purple discoloration of the stoma
Stoma is beefy red
There is skin excoriation around the stoma
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A Reason: Soft pasty stool is normal for a transverse colostomy, as the stool has not reached the sigmoid colon where most of the water is absorbed.
Choice B Reason: This is the correct answer because purple discoloration of the stoma indicates ischemia or necrosis, which can lead to infection, perforation, or sepsis. It requires urgent intervention.
Choice C Reason: Stoma is beefy red is a normal finding for a healthy stoma, as it indicates adequate blood supply and healing.
Choice D Reason: There is skin excoriation around the stoma is a common complication of a colostomy, as the stool can irritate the skin. It can be managed with proper skin care and appliance fitting.

Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A Reason: To administer medications and electrolytes is not the best reply for why the client will need the NG tube, because this is not the primary purpose of the NG tube in this case. The NG tube is mainly used to relieve gastric distension and prevent vomiting and aspiration. Medications and electrolytes can be given through the IV route.
Choice B Reason: To dilate the stomach as a presurgical preparation is not the best reply for why the client will need the NG tube, because this is not a valid indication for the NG tube in this case. The NG tube is mainly used to relieve gastric distension and prevent vomiting and aspiration. Dilation of the stomach is not a goal of presurgical preparation, but rather an adverse effect of gastric obstruction.
Choice C Reason: You will not be able to eat for several days is not the best reply for why the client will need the NG tube, because this is not a complete or accurate explanation of the NG tube in this case. The NG tube is mainly used to relieve gastric distension and prevent vomiting and aspiration. The client will not be able to eat for several days because of the NPO diet, which is necessary to rest the inflamed peritoneum and reduce the risk of complications.
Choice D Reason: To remove secretions and decompress your stomach is the best reply for why the client will need the NG tube, because this is a clear and correct explanation of the NG tube in this case. The NG tube is mainly used to relieve gastric distension and prevent vomiting and aspiration, which are common symptoms of acute peritonitis. By removing secretions and decompressing the stomach, the NG tube can reduce pain, inflammation, and infection in the abdominal cavity.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A Reason: This is incorrect because phototherapy is not a recommended therapy for contact dermatitis. Phototherapy involves exposing the skin to artificial light sources that emit specific wavelengths of light that can have anti-inflammatory or immunomodulatory effects. Phototherapy can be used for some skin conditions, such as psoriasis or eczema, but not for contact dermatitis.
Choice B Reason: This is incorrect because antibiotics are not a recommended therapy for contact dermatitis. Antibiotics are drugs that kill or inhibit bacteria that cause infections. Contact dermatitis is not an infection, but an allergic or irritant reaction to a substance that comes in contact with the skin. Antibiotics have no effect on contact dermatitis and may cause adverse effects or resistance.
Choice C Reason: This is incorrect because UV light is not a recommended therapy for contact dermatitis. UV light refers to ultraviolet radiation from sunlight or artificial sources that can damage DNA and cause skin cancer or aging. UV light can also worsen contact dermatitis by increasing inflammation and sensitivity to allergens or irritants.
Choice D Reason: This is correct because avoidance is the best therapy for contact dermatitis. Avoidance means identifying and avoiding the substance that causes the skin reaction. This can prevent further exposure and allow the skin to heal. The nurse can help the client by providing education on how to read labels, use protective clothing or gloves, or substitute safer products.
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