ch 46

colorectal cancer

The most common presenting symptom associated with colorectal cancer is a change in bowel habits. The passage of blood is the second most common symptom. Symptoms may also include unexplained anemia, anorexia, weight loss, and fatigue.

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

Which characteristic is a risk factor for colorectal cancer?

Familial polyposis

What is the most common cause of small-bowel obstruction?

Adhesions

Which drug is considered a stimulant laxative?

Bisacodyl

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.

Clients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are at significantly increased risk for which condition?

Osteoporosis

A client suspected of having colorectal cancer requires which diagnostic study to confirm the diagnosis?

Sigmoidoscopy

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

Which factor should the nurse review first to identify the cause of constipation?

Usual pattern of elimination

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

anal fissure.

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

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 fowlers

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

polyps

A nursing assessment of a client with peritonitis reveals hypotension, tachycardia, and signs and symptoms of dehydration. What else would the nurse expect to find?

severe abdominal pain with direct palpation or rebound tenderness

A client has a 25-year history of ulcerative colitis and is in the midst of an exacerbation. The client has a history of experiencing severe LLQ pain and explosive diarrhea. What would be the client's preparation before the latest diagnostic colonoscopy?

tap water enema