Timby's Introductory Medical-Surgical Nursing Thirteenth, North American Edition - Introduction to the Gastrointestinal System and Accessory Structures Related

Review Timby's Introductory Medical-Surgical Nursing Thirteenth, North American Edition - Introduction to the Gastrointestinal System and Accessory Structures related questions and content

Which nursing instruction is correct to provide the client following a barium enema?

  • A. The client will maintain a low residue diet.
  • B. The stools may be a white or clay colored.
  • C. Sips of fluid may be increased if tolerated.
  • D. An enema will be used to clear the bowel.
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: It is important to instruct the client that it is normal to have a white- or clay-colored stool following the barium enema. The client should report the color of the stool to the nurse. A progression of clay-colored stools to brown-colored stools should be noted. The client is prescribed a low-residue diet before the procedure. An increased fluid intake is offered to eliminate the barium from the bowel. The client is encouraged to move the bowel independently.