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A nurse caring for a patient with colorectal cancer is preparing the patient for upcoming surgery. The nurse administers cephalexin (Keflex) to the patient and explains what rationale?
- A. To treat any undiagnosed infections
- B. To reduce intestinal bacteria levels
- C. To reduce bowel motility
- D. To reduce abdominal distention postoperatively
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Antibiotics such as kanamycin (Kantrex), neomycin (Mycifradin), and cephalexin (Keflex) are administered orally the day before surgery to reduce intestinal bacteria. Preoperative antibiotics are not given to treat undiagnosed infections, reduce motility, or prevent abdominal distention.
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An adult patient has been diagnosed with diverticular disease after ongoing challenges with constipation. The patient will be treated on an outpatient basis. What components of treatment should the nurse anticipate?
- A. Anticholinergic medications
- B. Increased fiber intake
- C. Enemas on alternating days
- D. Reduced fat intake
- E. Fluid reduction
Correct Answer: B,D
Rationale: Patients whose diverticular disease does not warrant hospital treatment often benefit from a high-fiber, low-fat diet. Neither enemas nor anticholinergics are indicated, and fluid intake is encouraged.
A patient with a diagnosis of colon cancer is 2 days postoperative following bowel resection and anastomosis. The nurse has planned the patients care in the knowledge of potential complications. What assessment should the nurse prioritize?
- A. Close monitoring of temperature
- B. Frequent abdominal auscultation
- C. Assessment of hemoglobin, hematocrit, and red blood cell levels
- D. Palpation of peripheral pulses and leg girth
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: After bowel surgery, it is important to frequently assess the abdomen, including bowel sounds and abdominal girth, to detect bowel obstruction. The resumption of bowel motility is a priority over each of the other listed assessments, even though each should be performed by the nurse.
A patients large bowel obstruction has failed to resolve spontaneously and the patients worsening condition has warranted admission to the medical unit. Which of the following aspects of nursing care is most appropriate for this patient?
- A. Administering bowel stimulants as ordered
- B. Administering bulk-forming laxatives as ordered
- C. Performing deep palpation as ordered to promote peristalsis
- D. Preparing the patient for surgical bowel resection
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The usual treatment for a large bowel obstruction is surgical resection to remove the obstructing lesion. Administration of laxatives or bowel stimulants are contraindicated if the bowel is obstructed. Palpation would be painful and has no therapeutic benefit.
A 35-year-old male patient presents at the emergency department with symptoms of a small bowel obstruction. In collaboration with the primary care provider, what intervention should the nurse prioritize?
- A. Insertion of a nasogastric tube
- B. Insertion of a central venous catheter
- C. Administration of a mineral oil enema
- D. Administration of a glycerin suppository and an oral laxative
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Decompression of the bowel through a nasogastric tube is necessary for all patients with small bowel obstruction. Peripheral IV access is normally sufficient. Enemas, suppositories, and laxatives are not indicated if an obstruction is present.
A nurse is teaching a group of adults about screening and prevention of colorectal cancer. The nurse should describe which of the following as the most common sign of possible colon cancer?
- A. Development of new hemorrhoids
- B. Abdominal bloating and flank pain
- C. Unexplained weight gain
- D. Change in bowel habits
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The most common presenting symptom associated with colorectal cancer is a change in bowel habits. The passage of blood is the second most common symptom. Symptoms may also include unexplained anemia, anorexia, weight loss, and fatigue. Hemorrhoids and bloating are atypical.