The nurse is performing an initial postoperative assessment on the client following upper GI surgery. The client has an NG tube to low intermittent suction. To best assess the client for the presence of bowel sounds, which intervention should the nurse implement?
- A. Start auscultating to the left of the umbilicus.
- B. Turn off the NG suction before auscultation.
- C. Use the bell of the stethoscope for auscultation.
- D. Empty the drainage canister before auscultation.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: A. When the client has hypoactive bowel sounds, which would be expected in a postsurgical client, the nurse should begin listening over the ileocecal valve in the right lower abdominal quadrant rather than to the left of the umbilicus. The ileocecal valve normally is a very active area. B. When listening for bowel sounds on the client who has an NG tube to suction, the nurse should turn off the suction during auscultation to prevent mistaking the suction sound for bowel sounds. C. The diaphragm of the stethoscope should be utilized for bowel sounds. The bell of the stethoscope should be utilized for abdominal vascular sounds, such as bruits. D. There is no reason to empty the canister before auscultation.
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The client is admitted with end-stage liver failure and is prescribed the laxative lactulose (Chronulac). Which statement indicates the client needs more teaching concerning this medication?
- A. I should have two to three soft stools a day.
- B. I must check my ammonia level daily.
- C. If I have diarrhea, I will call my doctor.
- D. I should check my stool for any blood.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Clients do not routinely check ammonia levels at home; this is done clinically if needed. The other statements reflect correct understanding of lactulose use for hepatic encephalopathy.
The client with a new colostomy is being discharged. Which statement made by the client indicates the need for further teaching?
- A. If I notice any skin breakdown, I will call the HCP.
- B. I should drink only liquids until the colostomy starts to work.
- C. I should not take a tub bath until the HCP okays it.
- D. I should not drive or lift more than five (5) pounds.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: A liquid-only diet is unnecessary; a regular diet can be resumed as tolerated unless otherwise specified, as colostomies begin functioning soon after surgery. The other statements reflect correct colostomy care.
The nurse is preparing a client diagnosed with GERD for discharge following an esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD). Which statement indicates the client understands the discharge instructions?
- A. I should not eat for at least one (1) day following this procedure.
- B. I can lie down whenever I want after a meal. It won't make a difference.
- C. The stomach contents won't bother my esophagus but will make me nauseous.
- D. I should avoid orange juice and eating tomatoes until my esophagus heals.
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Avoiding acidic foods like orange juice and tomatoes reduces irritation to the esophagus, indicating understanding of dietary modifications for GERD. Not eating for a day is unnecessary, lying down after meals worsens reflux, and nausea is not the primary concern with GERD.
The client is admitted to a medical unit. The client’s medication list includes rifaximin, lactulose, and propranolol. Which assessment should be the nurse’s priority based on the client’s medication list?
- A. Assess the client for a history of PUD.
- B. Assess the client for abdominal pain.
- C. Place the client on airborne precautions.
- D. Assess neurological status and abdominal girth.
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: A. Antibiotics and acid-reducing medications are expected with the treatment of PUD, but propranolol (Inderal) would not be expected. Although these medications may cue the nurse to further explore a history of PUD, this is not the most likely conclusion. B. There is no indication that the client has abdominal pain, and there isn’t an analgesic on the medication list. C. There is no indication that the client has an infectious condition necessitating airborne precautions. D. All medications listed are used to treat liver cirrhosis and its complications of portal hypertension and hepatic encephalopathy. The antibiotic rifaximin (Xifaxan) and the laxative lactulose (Cephulac) are used for treating hepatic encephalopathy. Thus, assessing the client’s neurological status and measuring abdominal girth are most important.
A nasogastric tube is ordered for an alert adult client. In addition to the tube and basin, what is essential for the nurse to have at the bedside during the procedure?
- A. A 5-cc syringe filled with water
- B. A glass filled with water and a straw
- C. A large clamp
- D. A container of sterile water
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: A glass of water with a straw helps the client swallow during nasogastric tube insertion, facilitating passage.
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