Chapter 15 The Gastrointestinal System Review Questions Related

Review Chapter 15 The Gastrointestinal System Review Questions related questions and content

The nurse caring for an 80-year-old woman who is undergoing the extensive bowel preparation for a colonoscopy. The nurse should most closely monitor the patient for which potential complication?

  • A. Diarrhea
  • B. Metabolic acidosis
  • C. Fatigue
  • D. Dyspnea
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Metabolic acidosis. During bowel preparation for a colonoscopy, the patient may experience electrolyte imbalances due to fluid loss from diarrhea and bowel cleansing agents. This can lead to metabolic acidosis, characterized by low pH and bicarbonate levels in the blood. The nurse should monitor for signs such as confusion, weakness, and rapid breathing. Diarrhea (A) is a common side effect of bowel preparation but is not the most critical complication to monitor. Fatigue (C) and dyspnea (D) are not directly related to the electrolyte imbalances that can lead to metabolic acidosis in this scenario.