The nurse suspects that the client, hospitalized with severe ulcerative colitis, is experiencing the complication of toxic megacolon. Which assessment finding would support this suspicion?

Increased passage of gas and stool

Enlarging abdominal girth

Hyperactive bowel sounds

Afebrile

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is B

B. Toxic megacolon is characterized by severe colonic dilation, leading to a significant increase in abdominal girth. As the colon becomes distended, it can cause visible abdominal swelling and bloating, which may be accompanied by tenderness upon palpation.
A. In the context of toxic megacolon, there may be a reduction or cessation of bowel movements due to colonic dilation and paralysis.
C. In toxic megacolon, bowel sounds may initially be hyperactive due to increased peristalsis as the colon attempts to overcome the obstruction. However, as the condition progresses, bowel sounds may diminish or become absent due to colonic dilation and paralysis.
D. While fever can be present in toxic megacolon due to the underlying inflammatory process, it is not universally seen in all cases.

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Correct Answer is B

Explanation

B. Obtaining blood and urine specimens for culture and sensitivity is a critical first step. These specimens help identify the causative organism(s) and determine their susceptibility to antibiotics, guiding appropriate antibiotic therapy. Prompt initiation of targeted antibiotic treatment is essential in managing sepsis effectively.
A. This action is important for assessing the presence of any urinary tract stones or debris, which can be helpful in diagnosing the cause of the urinary tract infection. However, it is not the first action the nurse should take in managing a client admitted with sepsis secondary to a urinary tract infection.
C. Administering antibiotics before obtaining appropriate cultures may lead to empirical treatment without knowing the specific pathogen causing the infection. It is important to obtain cultures first to guide antibiotic selection and ensure optimal treatment.
D. Contact precautions may be necessary if the client is found to have a multidrug-resistant organism or if there are specific infection control concerns. However, placing the client on contact precautions is not the first action the nurse should take in managing sepsis secondary to a urinary tract infection.

A. Teach the client to support the surgical site while deep breathing and coughing B. Teach that PCA use may slow the return of bowel function, so the client should not overuse it C. Irrigate and reposition the NGT frequently D. Offer cups of fruit juices at frequent intervals

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A. Teach the client to support the surgical site while deep breathing and coughing: This action is appropriate as it helps prevent complications such as atelectasis and pneumonia by promoting lung expansion and clearing secretions. Supporting the surgical site while deep breathing and coughing helps reduce pain and discomfort during these activities.
B. This is an important teaching point for clients using PCA for pain control after surgery. Opioid medications used in PCA can lead to gastrointestinal motility issues, including constipation. However, pain management is central within the first 24 hours post operation.
C. Irrigating and repositioning the NGT frequently can increase the risk of complications such as displacement or irritation of the surgical site. NGT care should be performed as needed based on institutional protocols and the client's condition.

D. The client's diet will likely be advanced gradually, starting with clear fluids and progressing to full liquids and then solid foods as tolerated. Fruit juices may be introduced gradually as part of the liquid diet once the client's gastrointestinal function has recovered sufficiently.

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The nurse suspects that the client, hospitalized with severe ulcerative colitis, is experiencing the complication of toxic megacolon. Which assessment finding would support this suspicion?

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A client is admitted with sepsis secondary to a urinary tract infection. Of the following orders written by the health care provider, the nurse should first:

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

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