Nursing Elites

1. A client returns from surgery with a sigmoid colostomy. An ostomy appliance is attached. The priority nursing diagnosis for daily observation and care is:

• A. Diarrhea related to alteration in bowel elimination.
• B. Impaired skin integrity related to seepage.
• C. Impaired nutrition: More than body requirements related to high-fat diet.
• D. Impaired physical mobility related to surgical procedure.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Impaired skin integrity would be the priority nursing diagnosis for daily care of the colostomy because the effluent from the colostomy can be irritating to the skin. Diarrhea isn't a concern at this point. The client will be allowed nothing by mouth until peristalsis returns. The client should get out of bed on the first postoperative day, so mobility shouldn't be a problem.

2. The nurse aspirates 40 mL of undigested formula from the client’s nasogastric tube. Before administering an intermittent tube feeding, the nurse understands that the 40 mL of gastric aspirate should be

• A. Discarded properly and recorded as output on the client’s intake and output record.
• B. Poured into the nasogastric tube through a syringe with the plunger removed.
• C. Mixed with the formula and poured into the nasogastric tube through a syringe with the plunger removed.
• D. Diluted with water and injected into the nasogastric tube by putting pressure on the plunger.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: After checking the residual feeding contents, the gastric contents are reinstalled into the stomach by removing the syringe bulb or plunger and pouring the gastric contents into the syringe and through the nasogastric tube. Gastric contents should be reinstalled to maintain the client’s electrolyte balance. The gastric contents should be poured into the nasogastric tube through a syringe without a plunger and not injected by putting pressure on the plunger. Gastric contents do not need to be mixed with water or should the contents be discarded.

3. Before bowel surgery, Lee is to administer enemas until clear. During administration, he complains of intestinal cramps. What do you do next?

• A. Discontinue the procedure.
• B. Lower the height of the enema container.
• C. Complete the procedure as quickly as possible.
• D. Continue administration of the enema as ordered without making any adjustments.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: If a patient complains of intestinal cramps during an enema, lowering the height of the enema container can help reduce discomfort.

4. Your patient with peritonitis is NPO and complaining of thirst. What is your priority?

• A. Increase the I.V. infusion rate.
• B. Use diversion activities.
• C. Provide frequent mouth care.
• D. Give ice chips every 15 minutes.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Providing frequent mouth care is the priority for a patient with peritonitis who is NPO and complaining of thirst.

5. The client with a new colostomy is concerned about the odor from stool from the ostomy drainage bag. The nurse teaches the client to include which of the following foods in the diet to reduce odor?

• A. Yogurt
• B. Broccoli
• C. Cucumbers
• D. Eggs

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The client should be taught to include deodorizing foods in the diet, such as beet greens, parsley, buttermilk, and yogurt. Spinach also reduces odor but is a gas-forming food as well. Broccoli, cucumber, and eggs are gas-forming foods.

Similar Questions