A nurse is caring for a client who is postoperative following abdominal surgery and has a nasogastric (NG) tube to low intermittent suction. Which of the following findings should the nurse report to the provider?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Post-abdominal surgery, an NG tube to low intermittent suction decompresses the stomach, aiding recovery. Absence of bowel sounds indicates ileus paralysis of intestinal motility a potential complication like obstruction or peritonitis, requiring provider notification for imaging or intervention. NG output of 200 mL in 4 hours (50 mL/hr) is expected, removing fluid or gas, while distension may occur but isn't urgent unless worsening with other signs. Gastric residual of 50 mL is minimal, not concerning with suction. Absent bowel sounds signal a critical deviation, demanding prompt reporting to prevent escalation, reflecting the nurse's role in vigilant postoperative monitoring.