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A nurse is preparing to perform an admission assessment for a client who reports abdominal pain. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

  • A. Perform deep palpation at the end of the admission assessment
  • B. Auscultate the client's abdomen before palpation
  • C. Begin palpation of the abdomen at the site of pain
  • D. Assess the client's bowel sounds using the bell of the stethoscope
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Auscultating the abdomen before palpation is the correct action for the nurse to take in this scenario. This approach helps to assess bowel sounds accurately and prevents the alteration of bowel sounds that can occur due to palpation. By auscultating first, the nurse can gather important information about bowel function before proceeding with the palpation. Choice A is incorrect because deep palpation should be avoided initially, especially in a client reporting abdominal pain, as it may cause discomfort or potential harm. Choice C is incorrect as palpation should typically start away from the site of pain to prevent exacerbating discomfort. Choice D is incorrect because assessing bowel sounds with the bell of the stethoscope is not the initial step recommended when a client reports abdominal pain; auscultation should be performed with the diaphragm of the stethoscope first.