Which response is best when a patient refuses a stool softener after pituitary surgery?

"You need the stool softener because it will be hard to defecate while you remain in bed."

"Any manipulation of the pituitary gland can cause difficulty in defecation, so stool softeners are important after your surgery."

"It is important you do not strain during bowel movements because this could result in increased pressure on your surgical site."

"You can choose not to take the stool softener if you feel you do not need it."

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is C

A. "You need the stool softener because it will be hard to defecate while you remain in bed.": This is not the most appropriate response. While immobility can make bowel movements more difficult, the primary concern following pituitary surgery is the avoidance of straining due to the potential for increased intracranial pressure (ICP). The emphasis should be on avoiding pressure on the surgical site rather than general difficulties from immobility.
B. "Any manipulation of the pituitary gland can cause difficulty in defecation, so stool softeners are important after your surgery.": This is misleading. While pituitary surgery may influence certain bodily functions, the most critical concern is preventing straining to avoid raising ICP. The focus should be on explaining the rationale for avoiding pressure on the surgical site.
C. "It is important you do not strain during bowel movements because this could result in increased pressure on your surgical site.": This is the correct response. Straining during bowel movements can increase ICP, which could potentially compromise healing or lead to complications after pituitary surgery. This explanation directly addresses the patient's safety and emphasizes the need for stool softeners to prevent straining.
D. "You can choose not to take the stool softener if you feel you do not need it.": This response is inappropriate because it does not emphasize the importance of preventing straining, which is a critical consideration after pituitary surgery. The nurse should provide education on the necessity of the stool softener to avoid complications rather than leaving the decision solely to the patient.

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Free Nursing Study Resources

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A. Exercising safe sex practices, especially in regard to human papillomavirus (HPV), is important because HPV is a known risk factor for head and neck cancers, particularly oropharyngeal cancers. Safe sex practices, including the use of barriers like condoms, can reduce the risk of HPV infection.
B. Reducing smoking to half a pack/day is still a significant risk factor for head and neck cancer. The best approach is to quit smoking completely, as even small amounts of tobacco use increase the risk of cancer.
C. Alcohol consumption is a known risk factor for head and neck cancer, particularly when combined with smoking. The nurse should educate the client to limit alcohol intake or avoid it altogether.
D. Using harsh toothpastes or mouthwashes does not significantly affect the risk of head and neck cancer. However, maintaining good oral hygiene is important for overall health.

A. Glucocorticoid medications B. Dextrose 5% in 0.45% sodium chloride C. Oral hypoglycemic medications D. 0.9% sodium chloride IV bolus

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A. Glucocorticoid medications are not used to treat DKA. In fact, glucocorticoids can increase blood glucose levels and exacerbate hyperglycemia.
B. Dextrose 5% in 0.45% sodium chloride is not appropriate for the initial treatment of DKA. Initially, IV fluids containing normal saline (0.9% sodium chloride) are used to correct dehydration and restore electrolyte balance.
C. Oral hypoglycemic medications are not effective in DKA, as it is a serious acute complication of diabetes that requires insulin therapy and IV fluids, not oral medications.
D. 0.9% sodium chloride IV bolus is the first-line treatment for DKA to rehydrate the patient, correct electrolyte imbalances, and dilute the high blood glucose level. After stabilization, insulin therapy is also introduced.

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Which response is best when a patient refuses a stool softener after pituitary surgery?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

Which education about health promotion would the nurse include regarding head and neck cancer?

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

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Correct Answer is D

Explanation

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