RN Infection Control and Patient Safety Related

Review RN Infection Control and Patient Safety related questions and content

A client reporting abdominal pain has a diagnosis of acute abdominal syndrome but the cause has not been determined. Which prescription should the nurse question at this time?

  • A. Clear liquid diet only
  • B. Insertion of a nasogastric tube
  • C. Administration of an analgesic
  • D. Insertion of an intravenous (IV) line
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Until the cause of the acute abdominal syndrome is determined and a decision about the need for surgery is made, the nurse would question a prescription to give a clear liquid diet. The nurse can expect the client to be placed on NPO status and to have an IV line inserted. Insertion of a nasogastric tube may be helpful to provide decompression of the stomach. Pain management with medications that do not alter level of consciousness can decrease diffuse abdominal pain and rigidity, help with localizing the pain, and lead to more prompt diagnosis and treatment.