Chapter 47: Management of Patients With Intestinal and Rectal Disorders

A client with Crohn's disease is to receive prednisone as part of the treatment plan. Which of the following instructions would be appropriate?

"Avoid contact with other people who might have an infection." Clients taking corticosteroids may not experience a normal immune response to infection. The client needs to monitor himself or herself for signs and symptoms of infection and to avoid situations where they may be exposed to infection, such as others who might be ill. The drug should be taken with meals to decrease gastrointestinal irritation and should be withdrawn or tapered slowly to prevent addisonian crisis. Clients also need to limit their sodium intake or follow a low-sodium diet to minimize water retention associated with this drug.

A client is readmitted with an exacerbation of celiac disease 2 weeks after discharge. Which statement by the client indicates the need for a dietary consult?

"I didn't eat anything I shouldn't have; I just ate roast beef on rye bread." The client stating that he ate roast beef on rye bread indicates the need for a dietary consult because rye bread contains gluten, which must be eliminated from the client's diet. The client stating that he's followed the ordered medication regimen and diet doesn't suggest that the client needs a dietary consult; a treatment regimen consisting of medications to improve symptoms and dietary modification is necessary to treat celiac disease. The client stating that he hasn't traveled outside of the country doesn't suggest that dietary concerns exist. The client saying that he can't have oatmeal shows an understanding of the dietary restrictions necessary with celiac disease.

A nurse is teaching an older adult client about good bowel habits. Which statement by the client indicates to the nurse that additional teaching is required?

"I need to use laxatives regularly to prevent constipation." The client requires more teaching if he states that he'll use laxatives regularly to prevent constipation. The nurse should teach this client to gradually eliminate the use of laxatives because using laxatives to promote regular bowel movements may have the opposite effect. A high-fiber diet, ample amounts of fluids, and regular exercise promote good bowel health.

What symptoms of perforation might the nurse observe in a client with an intestinal obstruction? Select all that apply.

- sudden, sustained abdominal pain - abdominal distention Abdominal distention, fever, and sudden, sustained abdominal pain are the symptoms of perforation in a client with intestinal obstruction.

A nurse is preparing a presentation for a local community group of older adults about colon cancer. Which of the following would the nurse include as the primary characteristic associated with this disorder?

A change in bowel habits Although abdominal distention and blood in the stool (frank or occult) may be present, the chief characteristic of cancer of the colon is a change in bowel habits, such as alternating constipation and diarrhea. Abdominal pain is a late sign.

A community health nurse is performing a home visit to a 53-year-old patient who requires twice-weekly wound care on her foot. The patient mentions that she is currently having hemorrhoids, a problem that she has not previously experienced. What treatment measure should the nurse recommend to this patient?

A high-fiber diet with increased fruit intake Hemorrhoid symptoms and discomfort can be relieved by good personal hygiene and by avoiding excessive straining during defecation. A high-residue diet that contains fruit and bran along with an increased fluid intake may be all the treatment necessary to promote the passage of soft, bulky stools to prevent straining. It is unnecessary to avoid showering, and antibiotics are not an effective treatment.

A client is diagnosed with colon cancer, located in the lower third of the rectum. What does the nurse understand will be the surgical treatment option for this client?

Abdominoperineal resection A cancerous mass in the lower third of the rectum will result in aabdomin operinealre section with a wide excision of the rectum and the creation of a sigmoid colostomy. An encapsulated colorectal tumor may be removed without taking away surrounding healthy tissue. This type of tumor, however, may call for partial or complete surgical removal of the colon (colectomy). Occasionally, the tumor causes a partial or complete bowel obstruction. If the tumor is in the colon and upper third of the rectum, a segmental resectionis performed. In this procedure, the surgeon removes the cancerous portion of the colon and rejoins the remaining portions of the GI tract to restore normal intestinal continuity.

After assessing a client with peritonitis, the nurse most likely would document the client's bowel sounds as:

Absent. Since lack of bowel motility typically accompanies peritonitis, bowel sounds are absent. Therefore, the nurse will not observe mild, high-pitched, or hyperactive bowel sounds.

In addition to teaching a client with constipation to increase dietary fiber intake to 25 g/day, which of the following would the nurse include as important?

Adding fiber-rich foods to the diet gradually The nurse instructs the client to add fiber-rich foods to the diet gradually to avoid bloating, gas, and diarrhea. It is essential for a client to include bran cereals and beans in the diet because they ease defecation. The nurse also instructs the client to increase fluids to 6 to 8 glasses per day to prevent hard, dry stools. The client should also develop a regular exercise program to increase peristalsis and promote bowel elimination.

The nurse is performing a rectal assessment and notices a longitudinal tear or ulceration in the lining of the anal canal. The nurse documents the finding as which condition?

Anal fissure Fissures are usually caused by the trauma of passing a large, firm stool or from persistent tightening of the anal canal secondary to stress or anxiety (leading to constipation). An anorectal abscess is an infection in the pararectal spaces. An anal fistula is a tiny, tubular, fibrous tract that extends into the anal canal from an opening located beside the anus. A hemorrhoid is a dilated portion of vein in the anal canal.

The American Cancer Society recommends routine screening to detect colorectal cancer. Which screening test for colorectal cancer should a nurse recommend?

Annual digital examination after age 40 The American Cancer Society recommends an annual digital examination after age 40 for the purpose of detecting colorectal cancer. The CEA test is performed on clients who have already been treated for colorectal cancer. It helps monitor a client's response to treatment as well as detect metastasis or recurrence. Proctosigmoidoscopy is recommended every 3 to 5 years for people older than age 50. Barium enema isn't a screening test.

A patient arrives in the emergency department with complaints of right lower abdominal pain that began 4 hours ago and is getting worse. The nurse assesses rebound tenderness at McBurney's point. What does this assessment data indicate to the nurse?

Appendicitis In up to 50% of presenting cases of appendicitis, local tenderness is elicited at McBurney's point when pressure is applied (Black & Martin, 2012) (Fig. 48-3). Rebound tenderness (i.e., production or intensification of pain when pressure is released) may be present.

A client with anorexia complains of constipation. Which of the following nursing measures would be most effective in helping the client reduce constipation?

Assist client to increase dietary fiber. The nurse should assist the client to increase the dietary fiber in her food because it helps reduce constipation. Providing an adequate quantity of food is necessary in maintaining sufficient nutrition and in sustaining normal body weight. Obtaining medical, allergy, and food history would provide valuable information, however, it would not help reduce constipation.

A patient presents to the emergency room with a possible diagnosis of appendicitis. The health care provider asks the nurse to assess for tenderness at McBurney's point. The nurse knows to palpate the area:

Between the umbilicus and the anterior superior iliac spine. Local tenderness in the right lower quadrant is elicited at McBurney's point when pressure is applied between the umbilicus and the anterior superior iliac spine.

Which drug is considered a stimulant laxative?

Bisacodyl Bisacodyl is a stimulant laxative. Magnesium hydroxide is a saline agent. Mineral oil is a lubricant. Psyllium hydrophilic mucilloid is a bulk-forming agent.

Which of the following would a nurse expect to assess in a client with peritonitis?

Board-like abdomen The client with peritonitis would typically exhibit a rigid, board-like abdomen, with absent bowel sounds, elevated pulse rate, and rapid, shallow respirations.

The nurse is performing an abdominal assessment for a patient with diarrhea and auscultates a loud rumbling sound in the left lower quadrant. What will the nurse document this sound as on the nurse's notes?

Borborygmus Borborygmus is a rumbling noise caused by the movement of gas through the intestines, often associated with diarrhea.

Which term refers to intestinal rumbling?

Borborygmus Borborygmus is the intestinal rumbling caused by gas moving through the intestines that accompanies diarrhea. Tenesmus refers to ineffectual straining upon evacuation of stool. Azotorrhea refers to excess nitrogenous matter in the feces or urine. Diverticulitis refers to inflammation of a diverticulum from obstruction (by fecal matter), resulting in abscess formation.

The nurse is performing and documenting the findings of an abdominal assessment. When the nurse hears intestinal rumbling and the client then experiences diarrhea, the nurse documents the presence of which condition?

Borborygmus Borborygmus is the intestinal rumbling caused by the movement of gas through the intestines that accompanies diarrhea. Tenesmus refers to ineffectual straining at stool. Azotorrhea refers to excess of nitrogenous matter in the feces or urine. Diverticulitis refers to inflammation of a diverticulum from obstruction (by fecal matter) resulting in abscess formation.

A patient is admitted to the hospital after not having had a bowel movement in several days. The nurse observes the patient is having small liquid stools, a grossly distended abdomen, and abdominal cramping. What complication can this patient develop related to this problem?

Bowel perforation Megacolon is a dilated and atonic colon caused by a fecal mass that obstructs the passage of colon contents. Symptoms include constipation, liquid fecal incontinence, and abdominal distention. Megacolon can lead to perforation of the bowel.

In women, which of the following types of cancer exceeds colorectal cancer?

Breast In women, only incidences of breast cancer exceed that of colorectal cancer. In men, only incidences of prostate cancer and lung cancer exceed that of colorectal cancer.

The nurse is talking with a group of clients who are older than age 50 years about the recognition of colon cancer to access early intervention. What should the nurse inform the clients to report immediately to their primary care provider?

Change in bowel habits The chief characteristic of cancer of the colon is a change in bowel habits, such as alternating constipation and diarrhea. Excess gas, daily bowel movements, and abdominal cramping when having a bowel movement are not indicators of colon cancer.

Which is the most common presenting symptom of colon cancer?

Change in bowel habits The most common presenting symptom is a change in bowel habits. Fatigue, anorexia, and weight loss may occur but are not the most common presenting symptoms.

A client informs the nurse that he has been having abdominal pain that is relieved when having a bowel movement. The client states that the physician told him he has irritable bowel syndrome. What does the nurse recognize as characteristic of this disorder?

Chronic constipation with sporadic bouts of diarrhea Most clients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) describe having chronic constipation with sporadic bouts of diarrhea. Some report the opposite pattern, although less commonly. Most clients experience various degrees of abdominal pain that defecation may relieve. Weight usually remains stable, indicating that when diarrhea occurs, malabsorption of nutrients does not accompany it. Stools may have mucus, but blood is not usually found because the bowel is not locally inflamed. The sleep is not disturbed from abdominal pain.

The nurse is irrigating a client's colostomy when the client begins to report cramping. What is the appropriate action by the nurse?

Clamp the tubing and allow client to rest. The nurse should clamp the tubing and allow the client to rest when the client begins to report cramping during colostomy irrigation. Once the cramping has stopped, the nurse can resume the irrigation.

The nurse is irrigating a colostomy when the patient says, "You will have to stop, I am cramping so badly." What is the priority action by the nurse?

Clamp the tubing and give the patient a rest period. When irrigating a colostomy, the nurse should allow tepid fluid to enter the colon slowly. If cramping occurs, the nurse should clamp off the tubing and allow the patient to rest before progressing. Water should flow in over a 5- to 10-minute period.

Which of the following laxatives should be used by a cardiac patient who should avoid straining?

Colace Colace can be used safely by patients who should avoid straining such as cardiac patients and those with anorectal disorders. Milk of Magnesia is a saline agent. Dulcolax is a stimulant. Mineral oil is a lubricant.

A patient is suspected to have diverticulosis without symptoms of diverticulitis. What diagnostic test does the nurse anticipate educating the patient about prior to scheduling?

Colonoscopy Diverticulosis is typically diagnosed by colonoscopy, which permits visualization of the extent of diverticular disease and biopsy of tissue to rule out other diseases. In the past, barium enema was the preferred diagnostic test, but it is now used less frequently than colonoscopy. CT with contrast agent is the diagnostic test of choice if the suspected diagnosis is diverticulitis; it can also reveal abscesses.

Which statement provides accurate information regarding cancer of the colon and rectum?

Colorectal cancer is the third most common site of cancer in the United States. Cancer of the colon and rectum is the third most common site of new cancer cases in the United States. Colon cancer affects more than twice as many people as does rectal cancer (94,700 for colon, 34,700 for rectum). The incidence increases with age (the incidence is highest in people older than 85). Colon cancer occurrence is higher in people with a family history of colon cancer.

The nurse is preparing a client for a test that involves inserting a thick barium paste into the rectum with radiographs taken as the client expels the barium. What test will the nurse prepare the client for?

Defecography In defecography, a thick barium paste is inserted into the rectum. Radiographs are taken as the client expels the barium to determine whether there are any anatomic abnormalities or problems with the muscles surrounding the anal sphincter. A KUB will not determine this. Colonic transit studies are used to determine how long it takes for food to travel through the intestines. Abdominal radiography will show the structure but does not determine the muscle ability surrounding the anal sphincter.

The nurse is caring for a 77-year-old patient diagnosed with Crohn's disease. What would be especially important to monitor this patient for?

Dehydration Elderly patients can become dehydrated quickly and develop low potassium levels (ie, hypokalemia) as a result of diarrhea. The nurse observes for clinical manifestations of muscle weakness, dysrhythmias, or decreased peristaltic motility that may lead to paralytic ileus. All options would be important to monitor, but especially important is monitoring for dehydration.

Which is one of the primary symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)?

Diarrhea The primary symptoms of IBS include constipation, diarrhea, or a combination of both. Pain, bloating, and abdominal distention often accompany changes in bowel pattern.

Which of the following would the nurse identify as a characteristic finding when assessing a client for pilonidal sinus?

Dilated pits of hair follicles in the cleft Dilated pits of the hair follicles in the cleft are unique features of pilonidal sinus. Pain and swelling in the perianal area, purulent drainage from the gluteal fold, and abdominal pain and fever can also be observed in anorectal abscess or furuncles of the skin.

The nurse is conducting discharge teaching for a client with diverticulosis. Which instruction should the nurse include in the teaching?

Drink 8 to 10 glasses of fluid daily. The nurse should instruct a client with diverticulosis to drink at least 8 to 10 large glasses of fluid every day. The client should include unprocessed bran in the diet because it adds bulk, and should avoid the use of laxatives or enemas except when recommended by the physician. In addition, regular exercise should be encouraged if the client's current lifestyle is somewhat inactive.

A client is being treated for diverticulosis. Which information should the nurse include in this client's teaching plan?

Drink at least 8 to 10 large glasses of fluid every day The nurse should instruct a client with diverticulosis to drink at least 8 to 10 large glasses of fluid every day. The client should include unprocessed bran in the diet because it adds bulk, and should avoid the use of laxatives or enemas except when recommended by the physician. In addition, regular exercise should be encouraged if the client's current lifestyle is somewhat inactive.

The nurse is teaching a client with an ostomy how to change the pouching system. Which information should the nurse include when teaching a client with no peristomal skin irritation?

Dry skin thoroughly after washing The nurse should teach the client without peristomal skin irritation to dry the skin thoroughly after washing. Barrier powder, triamcinolone acetonide spray, and nystatin powder are used when the client has peristomal skin irritation and/or fungal infection.

A client has been recently diagnosed with an anorectal condition. The nurse is reviewing interventions that will assist the client with managing the therapeutic regimen. What would not be included?

Encourage the client to avoid exercise. Activity promotes healing and normal stool patterns. Proper cleansing prevents infection and irritation. Sitz baths promote healing, decrease skin irritation, and relieve rectal spasms. Encouragement promotes compliance with therapeutic regimen and prevents complications.

Which of the following is accurate regarding regional enteritis?

Exacerbations and remissions The course of regional enteritis is prolonged and variable. There is mild bleeding, fistulas are rare, and diarrhea is less severe than ulcerative colitis.

Which characteristic is a risk factor for colorectal cancer?

Familial polyposis Family history of colon cancer or familial polyposis is a risk factor for colorectal cancer. Age older than 40 years and a high-fat, high-protein, low-fiber diet are risk factors for colorectal cancer. A history of skin cancer is not a recognized risk factor for colorectal cancer.

The nurse is performing a community screening for colorectal cancer. Which characteristic should the nurse include in the screening?

Familial polyposis Family history of colon cancer or familial polyposis is a risk factor for colorectal cancer. Age older than 40 years andd a high-fat, high-protein, low-fiber diet are risk factors for colorectal cancer. A history of skin cancer is not a recognized risk factor for colorectal cancer.

The nurse is caring for a client with a suspected megacolon. The nurse anticipates that one of the findings of assessment will be

Fecal incontinence The nurse should anticipate fecal incontinence as one of the assessment findings. Other possible assessment findings include constipation and abdominal distention.

A nurse is applying an ostomy appliance to the ileostomy of a client with ulcerative colitis. Which action is appropriate?

Gently washing the area surrounding the stoma using a facecloth and mild soap For a client with an ostomy, maintaining skin integrity is a priority. The nurse should gently wash the area surrounding the stoma using a facecloth and mild soap. Scrubbing the area around the stoma can damage the skin and cause bleeding. The faceplate opening should be no more than 1/8? to 1/6? larger than the stoma. This size protects the skin from exposure to irritating fecal material. The nurse can create an adequate seal and prevent leakage of fecal material from under the faceplate by applying a thin layer of skin barrier and smoothing out wrinkles in the faceplate. Eliminating wrinkles in the faceplate also protects the skin surrounding the stoma from pressure.

The nurse is caring for a patient who has had an appendectomy. What is the best position for the nurse to maintain the patient in after the surgery?

High Fowler's After surgery, the nurse places the patient in a high Fowler's position. This position reduces the tension on the incision and abdominal organs, helping to reduce pain.

An elderly client diagnosed with diarrhea is taking digoxin. Which electrolyte imbalance should the nurse be alert to?

Hypokalemia The older client taking digitalis must be aware of how quickly dehydration and hypokalemia can occur with diarrhea. The nurse teaches the client to recognize the symptoms of hypokalemia because low levels of potassium intensify the action of digitalis, leading to digitalis toxicity.

The nurse is caring for a patient diagnosed with abdominal perforation. Which of the following is a clinical manifestation of this disease process?

Hypotension Clinical manifestations include hypotension, increased temperature, tachycardia, and elevated ESR.

Crohn's disease is a condition of malabsorption caused by which pathophysiological process?

Inflammation of all layers of intestinal mucosa Crohn's disease, also known as regional enteritis, can occur anywhere along the gastrointestinal tract but most commonly at the distal ileum and in the colon. Infectious disease causes problems such as small-bowel bacterial overgrowth, leading to malabsorption. Disaccharidase deficiency leads to lactose intolerance. Postoperative malabsorption occurs after gastric or intestinal resection.

When describing abdominal hernias to a group of nursing students, the instructor would identify which type as most common?

Inguinal The common abdominal hernias are inguinal, umbilical, femoral, and incisional, with inguinal hernias the most common type.

A patient visited a nurse practitioner because he had diarrhea for 2 weeks. He described his stool as large and greasy. The nurse knows that this description is consistent with a diagnosis of:

Intestinal malabsorption. Watery stools are characteristic of disorders of the small bowel, whereas loose, semisolid stools are associated more often with disorders of the large bowel. Large, greasy stools suggest intestinal malabsorption, and the presence of mucus and pus in the stools suggests inflammatory enteritis or colitis.

The nurse is conducting a community education program on colorectal cancer. Which statement should the nurse include in the program?

It is the third most common cancer in the United States. Colorectal cancer is the third most common type of cancer in the United States. The lifetime risk of developing colorectal cancer is 1 in 20. The incidence increases with age (the incidence is highest in people older than 85). Colorectal cancer occurrence is higher in people with a family history of colon cancer.

A patient is not having daily bowel movements and has begun taking a laxative for this problem. What should the nurse educate the patient about regarding laxative use?

Laxatives should not be routinely taken due to destruction of nerve endings in the colon. Laxative abuse, particularly the anthracene derivatives such as senna and cascara, can lead to destruction of the nerves of the colon that are essential for normal peristalsis (Apau, 2010a).

The nurse is assessing a patient with appendicitis. The nurse is attempting to elicit a Rovsing's sign. Where should the nurse palpate for this indicator of acute appendicitis?

Left lower quadrant Rovsing's sign may be elicited by palpating the left lower quadrant; this paradoxically causes pain to be felt in the right lower quadrant (see Fig. 48-3).

After teaching a group of students about irritable bowel syndrome and antidiarrheal agents, the instructor determines that the teaching was effective when the students identify which of the following as an example of an opiate-related antidiarrheal agent?

Loperamide Loperamide and diphenoxylate with atropine sulfate are examples of opiate-related antidiarrheal agents. Bismuth subsalicylate and kaolin and pectin are examples of absorbent antidiarrheal agents. Bisacodyl is a chemical stimulant laxative.

Diet modifications for patient diagnosed with chronic inflammatory bowel disease include which of the following?

Low residue Oral fluids and a low-residue, high-protein, high-calorie diet with supplemental vitamin therapy and iron replacement are prescribed to meet the nutritional needs, reduce inflammation, and control pain and diarrhea.

The nurse is caring for an older adult patient experiencing fecal incontinence. When planning the care of this patient, what should the nurse designate as a priority goal?

Maintaining skin integrity Fecal incontinence can disrupt perineal skin integrity. Maintaining skin integrity is a priority, especially in the debilitated or older adult patient.

Vomiting results in which of the following acid-base imbalances?

Metabolic alkalosis Vomiting results in loss of hydrochloric acid (HCl) and potassium from the stomach, leading to a reduction of chlorides and potassium in the blood and to metabolic alkalosis.

Which of the following is considered a bulk-forming laxative?

Metamucil Metamucil is a bulk-forming laxative. Milk of Magnesia is classified as a saline agent. Mineral oil is a lubricant. Dulcolax is a stimulant.

When a nurse recommends the following laxative, she emphasizes that it should not be taken with meals. Choose the laxative.

Mineral Oil Mineral oil should never be taken with meals because it can impair the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins and delay gastric emptying. Refer to Table 24-1 in the text.

Celiac sprue is an example of which category of malabsorption?

Mucosal disorders causing generalized malabsorption In addition to celiac sprue, regional enteritis and radiation enteritis are examples of mucosal disorders. Examples of infectious diseases causing generalized malabsorption include small-bowel bacterial overgrowth, tropical sprue, and Whipple disease. Examples of luminal problems causing malabsorption include bile acid deficiency, Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, and pancreatic insufficiency. Postoperative gastric or intestinal resection can result in development of malabsorption syndromes.

The nurse working in the ED is evaluating a client for signs and symptoms of appendicitis. Which of the client's signs/symptoms should the nurse report to the physician?

Nausea Nausea, with or without vomiting, is typically associated with appendicitis. Pain is generally felt in the right lower quadrant. Rebound tenderness, or pain felt upon the release of pressure applied to the abdomen, may be present with appendicitis. Low-grade fever is associated with appendicitis.

A 75-year-old male patient presents at the emergency department with symptoms of a small bowel obstruction. An emergency room nurse is obtaining assessment data from this patient. What assessment finding is characteristic of a small bowel obstruction?

Nausea and vomiting Nausea and vomiting are symptoms of a small bowel obstruction. Decrease in urine production and mucosal edema are not symptoms of a bowel obstruction. The patient may defecate mucus, but this is not accompanied by stool.

The nurse is reviewing the laboratory test results of a client with Crohn's disease. Which of the following would the nurse most likely find?

Negative stool cultures Stool cultures fail to reveal an etiologic microorganism or parasite, but occult blood and white blood cells (WBCs) often are found in the stool. Results of blood studies indicate anemia from chronic blood loss and nutritional deficiencies. The WBC count and erythrocyte sedimentation rate may be elevated, confirming an inflammatory disorder. Serum protein and albumin levels may be low because of malnutrition.

When preparing a client for surgery to treat appendicitis, the nurse formulates a nursing diagnosis of Risk for infection related to inflammation, perforation, and surgery. What is the rationale for choosing this nursing diagnosis?

Obstruction of the appendix reduces arterial flow, leading to ischemia, inflammation, and rupture of the appendix. A client with appendicitis is at Risk for infection related to inflammation, perforation, and surgery because obstruction of the appendix causes mucus fluid to build up, increasing pressure in the appendix and compressing venous outflow drainage. The pressure continues to rise with venous obstruction; arterial blood flow then decreases, leading to ischemia from lack of perfusion. Inflammation and bacterial growth follow, and swelling continues to raise pressure within the appendix, resulting in gangrene and rupture. Elderly, not middle-aged, clients are especially susceptible to appendix rupture.

The nurse is caring for a client with intussusception of the bowel. What does the nurse understand occurs with this disorder?

One part of the intestine telescopes into another portion of the intestine. In intussusception of the bowel, one part of the intestine telescopes into another portion of the intestine. When the bowel twists and turns itself and obstructs the intestinal lumen, this is known as a volvulus. A hernia is when the bowel protrudes through a weakened area in the abdominal wall. An adhesion is a loop of intestine that adheres to an area that is healing slowly after surgery.

A client with a diagnosis of acute appendicitis is awaiting surgical intervention. The nurse listens to bowel sounds and hears none and observes that the abdomen is rigid and boardlike. What complication does the nurse determine may be occurring at this time?

Peritonitis Lack of bowel motility typically accompanies peritonitis. The abdomen feels rigid and boardlike as it distends with gas and intestinal contents. Bowel sounds typically are absent. The diagnosis of acute appendicitis correlates with the symptoms of rupture of the appendix and peritonitis. A paralytic ileus and gas alone do not produce these symptoms.

Post appendectomy, a nurse should assess the patient for abdominal rigidity and tenderness, fever, loss of bowel sounds, and tachycardia, all clinical signs of:

Peritonitis Peritonitis is inflammation of the peritoneum, the serous membrane lining the abdominal cavity and covering the viscera. Peritonitis is typically a life-threatening emergency that requires prompt surgical intervention, and typically involves postoperative critical care monitoring due to the risk of sepsis, organ failure, and subsequent infections.

The nurse is monitoring a client's postoperative course after an appendectomy. The nurse's assessment reveals that the client has vomited, has abdominal tenderness and rigidity, and has tachycardia. The nurse reports to the physician that the client has signs/symptoms of which complication?

Peritonitis The nurse should report to the physician that the client has signs/symptoms of peritonitis. Signs/symptoms of a pelvic abscess include anorexia, chills, fever, diaphoresis, and diarrhea. Signs/symptoms of an ileus include absent bowel sounds, nausea, and abdominal distention. Signs/symptoms of hemorrhage include tachycardia, hypotension, anxiety, and bleeding.

A nurse is interviewing a client about his past medical history. Which preexisting condition may lead the nurse to suspect that a client has colorectal cancer?

Polyps Colorectal polyps are common with colon cancer. Duodenal ulcers and hemorrhoids aren't preexisting conditions of colorectal cancer. Weight loss — not gain — is an indication of colorectal cancer.

When interviewing a client with internal hemorrhoids, which of the following would the nurse expect the client to report?

Rectal bleeding Internal hemorrhoids cause bleeding but are less likely to cause pain, unless they protrude through the anus. External hemorrhoids may cause few symptoms, or they can produce pain, itching, and soreness of the anal area.

Which of the following is the most common symptom of a polyp?

Rectal bleeding The most common symptom is rectal bleeding. Lower abdominal pain may also occur. Diarrhea and anorexia are clinical manifestations of ulcerative colitis.

A client with a pilonidal sinus undergoes surgery. Which of the following would the nurse include in the client's postoperative plan of care?

Repacking the surgical wound Typically after surgery, packing is inserted into the cavity and wound heals by secondary intention. Thus wound care including dressing changes, removal of the packing and repacking the wound, and cleaning the incised tissue would be important. Because the infection is localized, systemic antibiotics usually are not prescribed. Since the wound is healing by secondary intention, sutures would not be used. There would be no need to keep the patient NPO after surgery.

A client is admitted with a diagnosis of acute appendicitis. When assessing the abdomen, the nurse would expect to find rebound tenderness at which location?

Right lower quadrant The pain of acute appendicitis localizes in the right lower quadrant (RLQ) at McBurney's point, an area midway between the umbilicus and the right iliac crest. Often, the pain is worse when manual pressure near the region is suddenly released, a condition called rebound tenderness.

A client presents to the ED with acute abdominal pain, fever, nausea, and vomiting. During the client's examination, the lower left abdominal quadrant is palpated, causing the client to report pain in the RLQ. This positive sign is referred to as ________ and suggests the client may be experiencing ________.

Rovsing's sign; acute appendicitis When an examiner deeply palpates the left lower abdominal quadrant and the client feels pain in the RLQ, this is referred to as a positive Rovsing's sign and suggests acute appendicitis.

Which category of laxatives draws water into the intestines by osmosis?

Saline agents (e.g., magnesium hydroxide) Saline agents use osmosis to stimulate peristalsis and act within 2 hours of consumption. Bulk-forming agents mix with intestinal fluids, swell, and stimulate peristalsis. Stimulants irritate the colon epithelium. Fecal softeners hydrate the stool by surfactant action on the colonic epithelium, resulting in a mixing of aqueous and fatty substances.

Which of the following will the nurse observe as symptoms of perforation in a patient with intestinal obstruction?

Sudden, sustained abdominal pain Sudden, sustained pain, abdominal distention, and fever are symptoms of perforation in a client with intestinal obstruction. A decrease in blood pressure and decrease in urine output are symptoms of shock. Purulent drainage from the gluteal fold is not a symptom of perforation; it only indicates that the client has developed a condition of anorectal abscess.

A client who has undergone colostomy surgery is experiencing constipation. Which intervention should a nurse consider for such a client?

Suggest fluid intake of at least 2 L/day The nurse should suggest a fluid intake of at least 2 L/day to help the client avoid constipation. The nurse should also offer prune or apple juice because they promote elimination. The nurse should encourage the client to eat regular meals. Dieting or fasting can decrease stool volume and slow elimination. The nurse should instruct the client to keep a record of food intake in case of diarrhea, because this helps identify specific foods that irritate the gastrointestinal tract.

A client is recently diagnosed with Crohn's disease and is beginning treatment. What first-line treatment does the nurse expect that the client will be placed on to decrease the inflammatory response?

Sulfasalazine Considered first-line treatment for inflammatory bowel disease, 5-ASA drugs contain salicylate, which is bonded to a carrying agent that allows the drug to be absorbed in the intestine. These drugs work by decreasing the inflammatory response. Methotrexate or azathioprine are used when failure to maintain remission necessitates the use of an immune-modulating agent. Ciprofloxacin is used as an effective adjunct to treat the disease.

A client is admitted to the hospital for diagnostic testing to rule out colorectal cancer. Which intervention should the nurse include on the plan of care?

Test all stools for occult blood. Blood in the stools is one of the warning signs of colorectal cancer. The nurse should plan on checking all stools for both frank and occult blood. The blood in the stool is coming from the colon or rectum; administering an ointment wouldn't help decrease the bleeding. Preparing a client for a gastrostomy tube isn't appropriate when diagnosing colorectal cancer. Colorectal cancer is usually painless; administering opioid pain medication isn't needed

Which is a true statement regarding regional enteritis (Crohn's disease)?

The clusters of ulcers take on a cobblestone appearance. The clusters of ulcers take on a cobblestone appearance. It is characterized by remissions and exacerbations. The pain is located in the lower right quadrant. The lesions are not in continuous contact with one another and are separated by normal tissue.

A client tells the nurse, "I am not having normal bowel movements." When differentiating between what are normal and abnormal bowel habits, what indicators are the most important?

The consistency of stool and comfort when passing stool In differentiating normal from abnormal, the consistency of stools and the comfort with which a person passes them are more reliable indicators than is the frequency of bowel elimination. People differ greatly in their bowel habits and normal bowel patterns range from three bowel movements per day to three bowel movements per week. It is important for the stool to be soft to pass without pain. The client may not be able to fully evacuate with a bowel movement; it may take time.

Which symptom characterizes regional enteritis?

Transmural thickening Transmural thickening is an early pathologic change of Crohn's disease. Later pathology results in deep, penetrating granulomas. Regional enteritis is characterized by regional discontinuous lesions. Severe diarrhea is characteristic of ulcerative colitis, whereas diarrhea in regional enteritis is less severe. Rectal bleeding is one of the predominant symptoms of ulcerative colitis.

The nurse is conducting a gastrointestinal assessment. When the client reports the presence of mucus and pus in the stool, the nurse assesses for additional signs/symptoms of which disease/condition?

Ulcerative colitis The presence of mucus and pus in the stool suggests ulcerative colitis. Watery stools are characteristic of small-bowel disease. Loose, semisolid stools are associated more often with disorders of the colon. Voluminous, greasy stools suggest intestinal malabsorption.

The presence of mucus and pus in the stools suggests which condition?

Ulcerative colitis The presence of mucus and pus in the stools suggests ulcerative colitis. Watery stools are characteristic of small-bowel disease. Loose, semisolid stools are associated more often with disorders of the colon. Voluminous, greasy stools suggest intestinal malabsorption.

The nurse is assessing a client for constipation. Which review should the nurse conduct first to identify the cause of constipation?

Usual pattern of elimination Constipation has many possible causes and assessing the client's usual pattern of elimination is the first step in identifying the cause. The nurse should obtain a description of the bowel elimination pattern, asking about the frequency, overall appearance and consistency of stool, blood in the stool, pain, and effort necessary to pass stool. It is also essential for the nurse to review the client's current medications, diet, and activity levels.

The nurse is assessing a client for constipation. Which factor should the nurse review first to identify the cause of constipation?

Usual pattern of elimination Constipation has many possible reasons and assessing the client's usual pattern of elimination is the first step in identifying the cause. The nurse should obtain a description of the bowel elimination pattern, asking about the frequency, overall appearance and consistency of stool, blood in the stool, pain, and effort necessary to pass stool. It is also essential for the nurse to review the client's current medications, diet, and activity levels.

Patients diagnosed with malabsorption syndrome may have vitamin and mineral deficiency. Patient who easily bleed have which of the following deficiencies?

Vitamin K The chief result of malabsorption is malnutrition, manifested by weight loss and other signs of vitamin and mineral deficiency (e.g., easy bruising [vitamin K deficiency], osteoporosis [calcium deficiency], and anemia [iron, vitamin B12 deficiency]).

A client with complaints of right lower quadrant pain is admitted to the emergency department. Blood specimens are drawn and sent to the laboratory. Which laboratory finding should be reported to the physician immediately?

White blood cell (WBC) count 22.8/mm3 The nurse should report the elevated WBC count. This finding, which is a sign of infection, indicates that the client's appendix might have ruptured. Hematocrit of 42%, serum potassium of 4.2 mEq/L, and serum sodium of 135 mEq/L are within normal limits. Alterations in these levels don't indicate appendicitis.

A longitudinal tear or ulceration in the lining of the anal canal is termed a(n):

anal fissure. Fissures are usually caused by the trauma of passing a large, firm stool or from persistent tightening of the anal canal secondary to stress or anxiety (leading to constipation). An anorectal abscess is an infection in the pararectal spaces. An anal fistula is a tiny, tubular, fibrous tract that extends into the anal canal from an opening located beside the anus. A hemorrhoid is a dilated portion of vein in the anal canal.

A 72-year-old client seeks help for chronic constipation. Constipation is a common problem for elderly clients because of several factors related to aging, including:

decreased abdominal strength. Decreased abdominal strength, muscle tone of the intestinal wall, and motility all contribute to chronic constipation in the elderly. A decrease in hydrochloric acid causes a decrease in absorption of iron and vitamin B12, whereas an increase in intestinal bacteria actually causes diarrhea.

A client reports severe pain and bleeding while having a bowel movement. Upon inspection, the health care provider notes a linear tear in the anal canal tissue. The client is diagnosed with a:

fissure. An anal fissure (fissure in ano) is a linear tear in the anal canal tissue. An anal fistula (fistula in ano) is a tract that forms in the anal canal. Hemorrhoids are dilated veins outside or inside the anal sphincter. A pilonidal sinus is an infection in the hair follicles in the sacrococcygeal area above the anus.

Diet therapy for clients diagnosed with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) includes:

high-fiber diet. A high-fiber diet is prescribed to help control diarrhea and constipation. Foods that are possible irritants, such as caffeine, spicy foods, lactose, beans, fried foods, corn, wheat, and alcohol, should be avoided. Fluids should not be taken with meals because they cause abdominal distention.

The nurse caring for an older adult client diagnosed with diarrhea is administering and monitoring the client's medications. Because one of the client's medications is digitalis (digoxin), the nurse monitors the client closely for:

hypokalemia. The older client taking digoxin must be aware of how quickly dehydration and hypokalemia can occur with diarrhea. The nurse teaches the client to recognize the symptoms of hypokalemia because low levels of potassium intensify the action of digitalis, leading to digitalis toxicity.

A client is recovering from an ileostomy that was performed to treat inflammatory bowel disease. During discharge teaching, the nurse should stress the importance of:

increasing fluid intake to prevent dehydration. Because stool forms in the large intestine, an ileostomy typically drains liquid waste. To avoid fluid loss through ileostomy drainage, the nurse should instruct the client to increase fluid intake. The nurse should teach the client to wear a collection appliance at all times because ileostomy drainage is incontinent, to avoid high-fiber foods because they may irritate the intestines, and to avoid enteric-coated medications because the body can't absorb them after an ileostomy.

A resident at a long-term care facility lost the ability to swallow following a stroke 4 years ago. The client receives nutrition via a PEG tube, has adapted well to the tube feedings, and remains physically and socially active. Occasionally, the client develops constipation that requires administration of a laxative to restore regular bowel function. What is the most likely cause of this client's constipation?

lack of free water intake A client who cannot swallow food cannot drink enough water to meet daily needs. Inadequate fluid intake is a common cause of constipation.

A nurse is reviewing lab results for a client with an intestinal obstruction, and infection is suspected. What would be an expected finding?

leukocytosis; elevated hematocrit; low sodium, potassium, and chloride Tests of serum electrolytes may indicate low levels of sodium, potassium, and chloride. Metabolic alkalosis is evidenced by arterial blood gas results. A complete blood count (CBC) shows an increased WBC count in instances of infection. The hematocrit level is elevated if dehydration develops.

Which client requires immediate nursing intervention? The client who:

presents with a rigid, boardlike abdomen. A rigid, boardlike abdomen is a sign of peritonitis, a possibly life-threatening condition. Epigastric pain occurring 90 minutes to 3 hours after eating indicates a duodenal ulcer. Anorexia and periumbilical pain are characteristic of appendicitis. Risk of rupture is minimal within the first 24 hours, but increases significantly after 48 hours. A client with a large-bowel obstruction may have ribbonlike stools.

Nursing assessment of a client with peritonitis reveals hypotension, tachycardia, and signs and symptoms of dehydration. The nurse also expects to find:

severe abdominal pain with direct palpation or rebound tenderness. Peritonitis decreases intestinal motility and causes intestinal distention. A classic sign of peritonitis is a sudden, diffuse, severe abdominal pain that intensifies in the area of the underlying causative disorder (such as appendicitis, diverticulitis, ulcerative colitis, or a strangulated obstruction). The client may also have rebound tenderness. Tenderness and pain in the right upper abdominal quadrant suggest cholecystitis. Jaundice and vomiting are signs of cirrhosis of the liver. Rectal bleeding or a change in bowel habits may indicate colorectal cancer.

The nurse teaches the client whose surgery will result in a sigmoid colostomy that the feces expelled through the colostomy will be

solid. With a sigmoid colostomy, the feces are solid. With a descending colostomy, the feces are semimushy. With a transverse colostomy, the feces are mushy. With an ascending colostomy, the feces are fluid.

An older adult client in a long term care facility is concerned about bowel regularity. During a client education session, the nurse reinforces the medically acceptable definition of "regularity." What is the actual measurement of "regular"?

stool consistency and client comfort Normal bowel patterns range from three bowel movements per day to three bowel movements per week. In differentiating normal from abnormal, the consistency of stools and the comfort with which a person passes them are more reliable indicators than is the frequency of bowel elimination.

The nurse is assessing a client for constipation. To identify the cause of constipation, the nurse should begin by reviewing the client's:

usual pattern of elimination. Constipation has many possible reasons; assessing the client's usual pattern of elimination is the first step in identifying the cause.