PN Adult Medical Surgical 2023 Related

Review PN Adult Medical Surgical 2023 related questions and content

A nurse is contributing to the plan of care for a client who is starting bowel training for the management of fecal incontinence. Which of the following interventions should the nurse recommend?

  • A. Limit the client's physical activity until bowel continence is achieved.
  • B. Assist the client to the restroom 30 min after meals.
  • C. Instruct the client to limit their intake of high-fiber foods.
  • D. Limit the client's fluid intake to 1500 mL/day
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Bowel training aims to establish a regular pattern for defecation, particularly for clients with fecal incontinence, by leveraging the gastrocolic reflex, which increases intestinal motility after meals. Option A is incorrect because limiting physical activity does not promote bowel regularity and may worsen incontinence by reducing muscle tone. Option B is correct as assisting the client to the restroom 30 minutes after meals takes advantage of this reflex, encouraging predictable bowel movements and enhancing control over time. Option C is wrong since high-fiber foods aid bowel regularity by adding bulk to stool, which helps with continence, not hinders it. Option D is also incorrect adequate fluid intake (not restriction to 1500 mL/day) supports healthy stool consistency and prevents constipation, a key factor in incontinence management. Assisting post-meal aligns with physiological principles and patient-centered care, making it the best intervention for effective bowel training.