Gastrointestinal System Nursing Exam Questions Related

Review Gastrointestinal System Nursing Exam Questions related questions and content

A nurse is caring for a client who has just returned from the operating room following the creation of a colostomy. The nurse is assessing the drainage in the pouch attached to the site where the colostomy was formed and notes serosanguineous drainage. Which nursing action is most appropriate based on this assessment?

  • A. Notify the physician
  • B. Document the amount and characteristics of the drainage
  • C. Apply ice to the stoma site
  • D. Apply pressure to the site
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Document the amount and characteristics of the drainage. This is appropriate as serosanguineous drainage is expected after colostomy creation. Documenting helps monitor for any changes and provides crucial information for the healthcare team.

Choice A (Notify the physician) is not necessary at this point as serosanguineous drainage is normal postoperatively. Choice C (Apply ice to the stoma site) and Choice D (Apply pressure to the site) are both incorrect actions that are not indicated in this situation and could potentially harm the client.