When assessing a client on the first postoperative day following abdominal surgery, the nurse does not hear any bowel sounds. In response to this finding, which action should the nurse implement?
Withhold further opioid analgesics.
Obtain a prescription for a laxative.
Document the assessment finding.
Prepare to insert a nasogastric tube.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A reason: Withholding further opioid analgesics might be considered if the lack of bowel sounds is due to opioid-induced ileus. However, this is not the immediate action the nurse should take. The nurse should first document the finding and continue to assess the client's condition.
Choice B reason: Obtaining a prescription for a laxative might be appropriate if the client is experiencing constipation. However, administering a laxative without further assessment and documentation of the bowel sounds could lead to complications. The nurse should document the finding first and then collaborate with the healthcare provider for further interventions.
Choice C reason: Documenting the assessment finding is the most appropriate initial action. This ensures that the lack of bowel sounds is recorded in the client's medical record, which is crucial for ongoing monitoring and communication with the healthcare team. Proper documentation also helps in tracking changes in the client's condition and making informed decisions about subsequent care.
Choice D reason: Preparing to insert a nasogastric tube might be necessary if the client develops symptoms of bowel obstruction or other complications. However, this action should follow the documentation and further assessment of the client's condition. The nurse should document the finding first to provide a basis for any further interventions.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Petechial haemorrhage under the client's eyes can be a sign of various conditions, including increased intrathoracic pressure from vomiting. However, it is not the most urgent finding in this scenario. The nurse should focus on the finding that indicates a potential life-threatening condition.
Choice B reason: Right lower abdomen rebound tenderness is a sign of peritonitis, which can be caused by appendicitis or other serious abdominal conditions. This is an urgent finding that requires immediate medical attention, as it indicates inflammation of the peritoneum and potential risk of perforation or severe infection.
Choice C reason: Severe headache with photosensitivity can be associated with conditions such as meningitis or migraines. While concerning, it does not take precedence over the abdominal signs that indicate a potentially life-threatening condition like peritonitis.
Choice D reason: Dark green coloured emesis can be indicative of bile or upper gastrointestinal content, which might be seen in conditions such as intestinal obstruction or vomiting. However, it is not as urgent as the finding of rebound tenderness, which suggests an acute and severe abdominal condition that needs immediate intervention.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Drawing air in through the nose and exhaling slowly through pursed lips is a technique known as pursed-lip breathing. This method helps improve gas exchange by keeping the airways open longer during exhalation, which aids in the removal of trapped air and reduces dyspneal.
Choice B reason: Increasing the breathing rate for a full 30 seconds is not recommended for clients with emphysema. Rapid breathing can lead to hyperventilation and increased work of breathing, which can exacerbate dyspneal.
Choice C reason: Raising hands above the head to expand the diaphragm might help in some situations, but it is not as effective as pursed-lip breathing for improving gas exchange and reducing dyspneal in clients with emphysema.
Choice D reason: Laying down on each side with knees bent and breathing from the abdomen is a relaxation technique that can help some clients, but it does not specifically address the need for improved gas exchange during episodes of dyspneal.
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