NCLEX RN Pediatric Questions Related

Review NCLEX RN Pediatric Questions related questions and content

The nurse is caring for a patient with a bowel resection. Which of the following would indicate that the patient's gastrointestinal tract is resuming normal function?

  • A. Firm abdomen
  • B. Presence of flatus
  • C. Excessive thirst
  • D. Absent bowel sounds
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The presence of flatus (gas) is a positive sign that the patient's gastrointestinal tract is resuming normal function after a bowel resection surgery. Flatus production indicates that peristalsis and normal bowel motility are returning, allowing gas to move through the intestine. This is an important milestone in the postoperative recovery process, as it suggests the return of normal bowel function. The other options provided are not indicative of the return of normal gastrointestinal function.