Test Bank for Medical Surgical Nursing: Concepts for Interprofessional Collaborative Care 10th Edition - Care of Patients with Inflammatory Intestinal Disorders Related

Review Test Bank for Medical Surgical Nursing: Concepts for Interprofessional Collaborative Care 10th Edition - Care of Patients with Inflammatory Intestinal Disorders related questions and content

A nurse assesses a client who has ulcerative colitis and severe diarrhea. Which assessment should the nurse complete first?

  • A. Inspection of oral mucosa
  • B. Review of recent dietary intake
  • C. Heart rate and rhythm
  • D. Percussion of abdomen
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Severe diarrhea can lead to hypovolemia and electrolyte imbalances, such as low potassium or magnesium, which may cause dysrhythmias. Assessing heart rate and rhythm is the priority to detect potential cardiac complications. Oral mucosa inspection, dietary intake review, and abdominal percussion are important but lower priority.