Mrs. Coates is a 65-year-old female who is on postoperative day 1 following a duodenal resection for a bleeding ulcer. She had an uneventful immediate postoperative course, but throughout the course of day 1 she has complained of a mild abdominal discomfort that has progressed throughout the day. This evening the AGACNP is called to the bedside to evaluate the patient for persistent and progressive discomfort. Likely causes of her symptoms include all of the following except
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Gastric retention. Mrs. Coates' symptoms of persistent and progressive discomfort are not likely due to gastric retention because she underwent a duodenal resection for a bleeding ulcer, which would bypass the stomach. Therefore, gastric retention is not a possible cause.
A: Colic due to return of peristalsis is a possible cause as peristalsis returning after surgery can cause discomfort.
B: Leakage from the duodenal stump is a possible cause as it can lead to abdominal discomfort postoperatively.
D: Hemorrhage is a possible cause given her history of bleeding ulcer and surgery.