Chapter 38- Bowel Elimination

When a client reveals to a nurse during data collection that his stools are speckled, which appropriate question might the nurse ask the client?

"Do you frequently take antacids?" Explanation: Medications and food may affect the color of stools. Antacids may cause speckling or a white discoloration. Anticoagulants may cause the stools to be light pink to red to almost black. Consuming large quantities of red meats may cause the stool to be almost black. Stools are light brown when consuming large amounts of milk and milk products along with a diet low in meats.

A nurse is caring for a client whose primary care provider has written an order for "enemas until clear." Which explanation to the client about this procedure is correct?

"I will administer enemas until the enema return is without stool." Explanation: "Enemas until clear" means that the nurse would administer enemas until no more stool is noted on output. A nurse would not be able to determine if the entire intestinal tract is clear. Administering three enemas is not what the prescriber ordered. Consuming clear liquids does not impact the use of enemas. The enema may not be part of the client's discharge instructions.

The nurse is preparing to administer a large-volume enema to an adult client. How far should the nurse insert the tubing into the rectum?

3 in (7.5 cm) Explanation: The tube should be inserted past the external and internal sphincters, approximately 3 in (7.5 cm). Further insertion, such as 5 in (12.5 cm), may damage intestinal mucous membrane. If the tube is inserted less than 3 in (7.5 cm), then the enema solution will not make it into the rectum but will seep out during the administration of the enema.

The nurse is providing health teaching for four clients. Which client should consider a colonoscopy screening?

50-year-old client with a family history of polyps Explanation: The nurse will teach that the 50-year-old client with a family history of polyps should consider a colonoscopy screening. Screenings should start at 50 years old and continue every 10 years thereafter. Other answers are incorrect.

The nurse is replacing a client's ileostomy appliance and has identified that the diameter of the stoma is 3.5 cm. The nurse has trimmed the flange of the new appliance to a diameter of 7 cm. What will be the most likely outcome of the nurse's action?

A risk that the peristomal skin will become excoriated Explanation: An appliance that is too large will expose peristomal skin to digestive enzymes, leading to skin breakdown. It will not fit as securely as it should, but this does not necessarily mean that it will need to be changed daily. Prolapse is not related to the way that the appliance is sized or trimmed.

A student nurse is preparing to administer a client's ordered large-volume enema. What action should the nurse perform during this skill?

Administer the solution gradually over 5 to 10 minutes. Explanation: Large-volume enemas should be given over a 5- to 10-minute time frame. The solution should be warm, but warming for a specific time period in a microwave could result in overheating. It is not always necessary or possible for the client to attempt a bowel movement prior to the procedure. If performed correctly, the procedure should not necessitate analgesia.

A nurse who is planning menus for a client in a long-term care facility takes into consideration the effects of foods and fluids on bowel elimination. Which examples correctly describe these effects? Select all that apply.

Clients who are constipated should eat more fruits and vegetables. Clients experiencing flatulence should avoid gas-producing foods such as cauliflower and onions. Clients with food intolerances may experience altered bowel elimination. Explanation: The nurse would realize that clients who are constipated should eat more fruits and vegetables. The nurse would realize that clients experiencing flatulence should avoid gas-producing foods such as cauliflower and onions. The nurse would also realize that clients with food intolerances may experience altered bowel elimination. The nurse would realize that a constipated client would not eat eggs and pasta to relieve the constipation; a better choice would be fruits, vegetables, and increased fiber and fluids if not contraindicated. The nurse would realize that alcohol and coffee do not tend to have a constipating effect on clients.

Which statement best explains why digital removal of stool is considered a last resort after other methods of bowel evacuation have been unsuccessful?

Digital removal of stool may cause parasympathetic stimulation. Explanation: The procedure may stimulate a vagal response, which increases parasympathetic stimulation. The nurse does use digital removal as a last resort. It is an uncomfortable but necessary procedure for the client. Because clients are uncomfortable with fecal impaction, the client will consent for the procedure. Digital removal does not cause rebound diarrhea nor electrolyte loss.

The nurse is preparing to auscultate the bowel sounds of a client with a nasogastric tube in place set to low intermittent suction. How shall the nurse approach the assessment of bowel sounds and manage the nasogastric tube?

Disconnect the nasogastric tube from suction during the assessment of bowel sounds. Explanation: If the client has a nasogastric tube in place, disconnect it from the suction during this assessment to allow for accurate interpretation of sounds. Allowing the low intermittent to continue during the assessment will interfere with the auscultation of the sounds. Disconnect of the tube can occur immediately and not for 1 hour prior to the assessment.

After data collection on a client, the nurse suspects that the client has diarrhea. Which data collection finding, if observed by the nurse, would confirm the nurse's suspicion?

Hyperactive bowel sounds Explanation: Increased bowel motility, indicated by hyperactive bowel sounds, is commonly caused by diarrhea. Visible waves of abdominal peristalsis are commonly seen in intestinal obstruction. The anal area normally has increased pigmentation and some hair growth. Diarrhea stools are liquid in formation, whereas dry, hard stools are seen in constipation.

The student nurse is administering a large-volume enema to a client. The client reports abdominal cramping. What should the student nurse do first?

Stop the administration of the enema momentarily. Explanation: If the client reports abdominal discomfort or cramping, the nurse should momentarily stop the flow of solution. Increasing the flow of the enema may cause more cramping and discomfort. Cramping and discomfort are common complaints during enema administration so there is no need to notify the physician.

The nurse is slowly advancing a nasogastric (NG) tube when the client begins to gasp and is unable to vocalize. Which scenario has likely occurred?

The NG tube is in the client's airway. Explanation: The tube is in the airway if the client shows signs of distress and cannot speak or hum. Excessive coughing and gagging may occur if the tube has curled in the back of throat. A vasovagal reaction is typically manifested by lightheadedness and fainting, not by gasping and an inability to vocalize. There is no indication that the client is forcefully resisting the procedure.

When reviewing a client's chart, which data related to a client experiencing diarrhea might suggest to the nurse a causative factor?

The client returned from a foreign country 2 days ago. Explanation: Eating native food and drinking water in a foreign country may cause problems with digestion and elimination, such as diarrhea. To promote normal bowel elimination, people should drink 2,000 to 3,000 mL of fluids daily. Ignoring the urge to defecate and consuming large quantities of fiber, such as fresh vegetables, may lead to constipation.

Which client is most likely to require interventions in order to maintain regular bowel patterns?

a client whose neuropathic pain requires multiple doses of opioids each day Explanation: Opioids have a very high potential to cause constipation. Anticoagulants, hormone replacements, diuretics, and adrenergic blockers are not among the medications commonly implicated in cases of constipation.

During the inspection of a client's abdomen, the nurse notes that it is visibly distended. The nurse should proceed with the client's abdominal assessment by next performing:

auscultation. Explanation: When performing an abdominal assessment, the nurse should proceed from inspection to auscultation, since performing palpation or percussion prior to auscultation may disturb normal peristalsis and confound the assessment.

A client's recent diagnosis of colorectal cancer has required a hemicolectomy (removal of part of the bowel) and the creation of a colostomy. The nurse would recognize that the client's stoma is healthy when it appears what color?

dark pink and moist Explanation: A healthy stoma is dark pink to red and moist. Redness, as well as moisture, is normal to the stoma. Pallor may suggest anemia and a dark appearance may indicate ischemia.

A client's last bowel movement was 4 days ago and oral laxatives and dietary changes have failed to prompt a bowel movement. How should the nurse position the client in anticipation of administering a cleansing enema?

left side-lying Explanation: When administering a cleansing enema, the client is most often positioned in a left side-lying (Sims') position. Prone is lying flat, especially face downward. Visualization of the rectum is acceptable but insertion of the enema is difficult. The supine position means lying horizontally with the face and torso facing up, and this is not helpful for inserting an enema as a nurse cannot visualize the rectum. The right side-lying position is used for positioning of a client, not for an enema.

A client has received nursing teaching about proper skin care at a stomal site. The nurse's teaching has been effective when the client identifies which solution is used to clean the stoma?

water and mild soap Explanation: The nurse will teach the client to use water and mild soap to cleanse the stoma. Saline only will not provide cleansing; an alcohol-based sanitizer will dry the stoma; mineral oil is not appropriate for cleansing.

A registered nurse is overseeing the care of numerous clients on an acute medicine unit. Which task should the nurse delegate to unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP)?

Emptying a client's ileostomy appliance Explanation: It is safe for an experienced UAP to empty an ostomy. GI assessment and insertion and irrigation of an NG tube cannot be delegated.

The nurse is evaluating stool characteristics of an adult client. Which of the following would describe a normal stool? Select all that apply.

dark brown light brown Explanation: The nurse identifies that normal stool varies in color from light to dark brown. Black, clay (tan), and yellow are considered abnormal colors for adult stool.

A woman age 76 years has informed the nurse that she has begun using over-the-counter laxatives because her friend told her it was imperative to have at least one bowel movement daily. How should the nurse best respond to this client's statement?

"Actually, people's bowel patterns can vary a lot and some people don't tend to go every day." Explanation: Elimination patterns vary widely among individuals, and the expectation of a daily bowel movement is not realistic for many healthy people. This client may not require pharmacologic interventions.

A nurse is caring for a client with an NG tube attached to continuous suction. The nurse observes that the tube is connected to the wall suction, but it is not draining. What is the nurse's best action?

Attempt to irrigate the NG tube with water or normal saline. Explanation: An NG tube that is not draining should normally be irrigated. Turning the suction off and on is less likely to be effective, and it may be unsafe to leave the suction turned off for half an hour. Digestive enzymes are not used on NG tubes that are used for suction. Removing the NG tube would be an action of last resort.

A client is preparing for a fecal occult blood test. What teaching will the nurse provide regarding vitamin C three days before testing?

Avoid more than 250 mg Explanation: The nurse will teach the client to avoid taking more than 250 mg of vitamin C two to three days before testing, and not to consume citrus fruits or juices. Therefore, the other answers are incorrect.

The nurse provides teaching to a client experiencing constipation. Which food choice on the client's breakfast tray indicates effective teaching?

Explanation: Constipation may be avoided, minimized, or eliminated with proper food selection. Citrus fruits, such as grapefruit, are good choices for a client with constipation as they are rich in soluble fiber pectin, which increases gastrointestinal motility. Bacon contains high fat, which increases constipation. Eggs are low in fiber and high in fat, which slows gastrointestinal motility. Fat in whole milk is constipating.

A client asks, "Why do some foods, like corn, come out undigested in my feces?" Which is the nurse's best response?

Corn is high in cellulose, which is an insoluble fiber that the body cannot digest. Explanation: Corn is high in cellulose, which is an insoluble fiber that the body cannot digest. However, the body breaks down the other components of corn. Chewing corn for longer can also help the digestive system break down cellulose walls to access more of the nutrients. Sucrose, lactose, and galactose are sugars that are not fiber and more easily digestible by the body. During digestion, starches and sugars are broken down both mechanically (e.g. through chewing) and chemically (e.g. by enzymes) into the single units glucose, fructose, and/or galactose, which are absorbed into the blood stream and transported for use as energy throughout the body.

The nurse needs to collect stool for occult blood testing from an 8-month-old client. The parent asks if the specimen for testing can be collected from the child's diaper. What is the best response by the nurse?

"Only if the stool has not been contaminated by urine." Explanation: Stool can be collected from a diaper for occult blood testing only if the stool has not been contaminated by urine. It does not matter whether the diaper is disposable or cloth. The type of developer does not make a difference as all are used to test for occult blood.

The nurse has presented an educational in-service about caring for clients who have newly created ostomies. The nurse asks participants, "How will you know when a client begins to accept the altered body image?" Which responses by participants indicates a correct understanding of the material? Select all that apply.

"The client is willing to look at the stoma." "The client makes neutral or positive statements about the ostomy." "The client expresses interest in learning self-care." Explanation: With a diagnosis of altered body image, a nurse would create interventions for the client becoming more comfortable with the surgical change. When the client is willing to look at the stoma, makes neutral or positive statements about the ostomy, and begins to assist with their care demonstrates that the client is accepting of the body image change that occurred. If the client takes prescribed antidepressants and uses spray deodorant several times an hour means that the has not accepted the change in their body or rather is in denial of the surgical change.

The nurse is teaching a client with rectal bleeding about fecal occult blood test (FOBT) testing supplies. What teaching will the nurse provide?

"This test detects heme, a type of iron compound in blood in the stool." Explanation: The nurse will teach the client that that the FOBT detects heme. It does not test for food issues, nor does it test for infection. The fecal immunochemical test (FIT) results have a high rate of specificity for colorectal cancer.

A client with no significant medical history reports experiencing diarrhea over the past week. Which assessment question(s) will the nurse ask? Select all that apply.

"What are your normal bowel habits?" "Do you use laxatives?" Explanation: The nurse will ask about new medications because these can often cause diarrhea; what the client's normal bowel habits are like, to establish a baseline; and whether the client is using laxatives, which can contribute to diarrhea. Rectal fullness and stool that is difficult to pass are associated with constipation.

In the nursing care plan for constipation, the nurse should have an intervention that addresses the number of grams of cellulose that are needed for normal bowel function. How many grams should be in the daily diet?

20-30 g Explanation: A person who consumes approximately 20 to 30 grams of dietary fiber from fruits, vegetables, and grains will most likely have sufficient bulk in the stools to allow for easy defecation.

The home care nurse visits a client and is reviewing the medications that the client uses. Which medication would the nurse identify as acting directly on the intestine to slow bowel motility, or to absorb excess fluid in the bowel?

Antidiarrheal agent Explanation: Antidiarrheal agents act directly on the intestine to slow bowel motility or to absorb excess fluid in the bowel. Antiflatulence agents are used to relieve gas. Laxatives promote evacuation of hardened stool from the bowel. Suppositories, when inserted into the rectum, melt and can be absorbed for systemic or local effects.

A nurse is following a health care provider's order to irrigate a client's NG tube. Which guideline is recommended in this procedure?

Assist the client to a 30- to 45-degree position, unless this is contraindicated. Explanation: To irrigate an NG tube, assist the client to 30- to 45-degree position, unless this is contraindicated. Pour the irrigating solution into the container and draw up 30 mL of saline solution (or amount indicated in the order or policy) into the syringe. If a Salem Sump or double-lumen tube is used, make sure that syringe tip is placed in the drainage port and not in the blue air vent. If unable to irrigate the tube, reposition the client and attempt irrigation again. Inject 10 to 20 mL of air and aspirate again.

The nurse assesses a client who underwent abdominal surgery 72 hours prior and notes that the client has developed abdominal distention. Which further physical assessment will the nurse perform to gather additional information?

Auscultate for bowel sounds. Explanation: An obstruction that blocks the passage of flatus and intestinal chime or feces is a primary cause of abdominal distention. Paralytic ileus and abdominal tumors are types of bowel obstruction that produce distention. Abdominal surgery places the client at risk for developing a paralytic ileus. The nurse would auscultate for bowel sounds, as absent bowel sounds 72 hours after abdominal surgery may signal that the client has developed a paralytic ileus. Measuring abdominal girth, asking about past bowel movements, and observing the dressing would not provide the needed information to determine if a paralytic ileus is occurring.

Removal of a client's NG tube has been ordered. Which action should the nurse perform during this intervention?

Before removing the tube, discontinue suction and separate the tube from suction. Explanation: When removing the tube, the nurse should discontinue the suction and separate the tube from suction to allow for its unrestricted removal. The client should be placed in a 30- to 45-degree position. The tube should be flushed with 10 mL of water or normal saline solution and should be removed as the client holds his or her breath.

A nurse prepares to insert a nasointestinal tube to provide nutrition to a client. Which guideline is recommended for this procedure?

Begin by measuring from the tip of the client's nose to the earlobe to the xiphoid process. Explanation: To insert a nasointestinal tube, the nurse should measure the tube from the tip of nose to the earlobe and from the earlobe to the xiphoid process and add 8 to 10 in (20 to 25 cm) for intestinal placement. The client should be placed on his or her right side. Analgesia is not normally required in anticipation of placement.

An older adult woman who is incontinent of stool following a cerebrovascular accident will have which nursing diagnosis?

Bowel Incontinence related to loss of sphincter control, as evidenced by inability to delay the urge to defecate Explanation: The most appropriate nursing diagnosis addresses the client's fecal incontinence, related to loss of sphincter control innervation.

The nurse is doing preoperative teaching with a client who has a prescription for Golytely® before undergoing intestinal surgery. For tolerance of drinking the solution, the nurse would advise the client to drink it in which manner?

Chilled Explanation: GoLYTELY® has a salty taste and is better tolerated if consumed cold. It is a powder that is mixed with water, not fruit juice. Drinking it at room temperature or warm does not enhance its taste.

A nurse is collecting a stool specimen of a client suspected of having Clostridium difficile. Which guideline is recommended for this procedure?

Collect 15 to 30 mL of the client's liquid stool. Explanation: Usually, 1 in (2.5 cm) of formed stool or 15 to 30 mL of liquid stool is sufficient; this client is more likely to have liquid stool. If portions of the stool include visible blood, mucus, or pus, include these with the specimen. Also be sure that the specimen is free of any barium or enema solution. Because a fresh specimen produces the most accurate results, send the specimen to the laboratory immediately.

Which symptom is a known side effect of antibiotics?

Diarrhea Explanation: A side effect of taking antibiotics is diarrhea. Constipation, fecal impaction, and abdominal bloating are not common side effects of antibiotics.

The nurse is creating a plan of care for an older adult client at risk for constipation. Which intervention by the nurse will decrease this risk?

Encourage physical activity to improve bowel regularity. Explanation: Clients at risk for constipation should be encouraged to participate in regular physical activity to increase gastrointestinal motility and improve bowel regularity. Dietary fiber should be increased, not decreased. Milk products can result in constipation. Drinking water is important; however, the amount falls below the recommended amount of daily water intake.

The nurse is caring for a client who is scheduled for an esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD). What action would the nurse take to prepare the client for this procedure?

Ensure that the client fasts 6 to 12 hours before the test as per policy. Explanation: The nurse would ensure that the client fasted 6 to 12 hours before the test as per policy. The nurse would not provide a light meal before the test, nor administer two Fleet enemas for an EGD. The client would not ingest a gallon of bowel cleanser. The nurse would not give the client a barium contrast mixture to drink.

A nurse is teaching a student nurse how to manage unexpected events during the removal of a nasogastric tube. Which action should the nurse recommend?

If within 2 hours after NG tube removal, the client's abdomen is showing signs of distention, notify the health care provider. Explanation: If within 2 hours after NG tube removal, the client's abdomen is showing signs of distention, notify the health care provider. The health care provider may order the nurse to replace the NG tube. If epistaxis occurs with removal of the NG tube, occlude both nares until bleeding has subsided and ensure the client is in an upright position. Petroleum jelly is not used to address pain during removal. The nurse cannot independently reinsert the NG tube.

A nurse is assessing and documenting the eating habits of a client with repeated reports of gas who wants to include more fiber in the diet. Which suggestion should the nurse include in the teaching plan?

Increase fiber slowly over a period of time to prevent gas. Explanation: Vegetables such as cabbage, cucumbers, and onions are commonly known for producing gas. By introducing fiber over a period of time, the client can get used to fiber intake and note which foods cause more gas. Flatulence, or flatus, results from swallowing air while eating or sluggish peristalsis. Drinking soft drinks can increase gas and have no effect on fiber breakdown in the body. Another cause is the gas that forms as a byproduct of bacterial fermentation in the bowel. Protein does not produce gas that leads to flatus.

A client is on bed rest and an enema has been prescribed. Which precaution(s) will be taken by the nurse to facilitate the client's comfort and participation? Select all that apply.

Instill the fluid slowly. Place the client in the Sims position. Apply lubricant to the rectal tip. Raise the client's buttocks before inserting the enema. Maintain equal pressure on the enema until it is removed from the rectum. Explanation: A reclining position on the left side, or Sims position, is recommended. The nurse will apply lubricant to the rectal tip before insertion of the enema. The client's buttocks should be raised when inserting into the rectum. The fluid should be instilled slowly, and pressure will be maintained until the tip is removed from the rectum.

Which medication causes constipation?

Iron supplements Explanation: A common side effect of iron supplements is constipation. Bisacodyl is a stool softener. Aspirin is an analgesic that does not typically cause constipation. Magnesium antacids help to decrease heartburn and do not typically cause constipation.

The nurse is assisting an older adult client into position for a sigmoidoscopy. Which position would the nurse place the client in?

Left lateral Explanation: The left lateral or knee to chest position is the most common position for sigmoidoscopies or colonoscopies. If the client is not able to tolerate this position, Sims' position may also be used. The right lateral, prone or semi-Fowler's positions are not routinely used for this procedure.

The nurse is administering a large-volume cleansing enema to a client who reports severe cramping upon introduction of the enema solution. What would be the nurse's next action?

Lower solution container and check temperature and flow rate. Explanation: The nurse's next action would be to lower the solution container and check the temperature and flow rate. Lowering the solution container decreases the pressure of the flow of the solution. The cramping could be related to the pressure of the flow, the temperature of the solution, or a high flow rate of the solution. The nurse would not place the client in a supine position, but in a low-Fowler's position or higher. The nurse would not remove the tube and check for any fecal contents. The nurse would not modify the amount and length of the administration, as this is not causing the severe cramping.

A nurse is conducting an abdominal assessment. Which palpation finding(s) necessitates reporting to the health care provider? Select all that apply.

Mass lower left quadrant Distention Firmness Abdominal crepitus Rebound tenderness Explanation: All options are abnormal findings and should be reported to the health care provider.

A nurse needs to administer an enema to a client to lubricate the stool and intestinal mucosa to make stool passage more comfortable. Which type of enema should the nurse administer?

Oil-retention Explanation: Oil-retention enemas help to lubricate the stool and intestinal mucosa, making defecation easier. A hypertonic enema draws water into the colon, which stimulates the defecation reflex. Carminative enemas help to expel flatus from the rectum and relieve distention secondary to flatus. Anthelmintic enemas are administered to destroy intestinal parasites.

An older adult client has a history of constipation and currently self-treats with over-the-counter laxatives. What education will the nurse provide the client regarding the use of laxatives? Select all that apply.

Oral laxatives take longer to work than laxatives administered rectally. Older adults are at a higher risk for laxative misuse and abuse. Rectal suppositories need to be retained in the rectum for at least 15 minutes. Incorporate high-fiber foods into the diet and increase fluid intake. Explanation: When providing education to an older adult client regarding prevention and treatment of constipation, the nurse will include information about the length of time it can take oral laxatives to be effective compared with rectal suppositories. If the client has had a rectal suppository to treat constipation in the past, the client may expect that oral laxatives will work just as quickly. It is important for the nurse to make this distinction between the two routes of administration so the client does not become impatient, leading to overuse of laxatives. Laxative abuse is possible among older adult clients experiencing changes in bowel routine. Some older adult clients may become bowel-conscious and overuse laxatives or have sustained laxative abuse. Bowel assessment can discover these issues for appropriate intervention. It is important to inform the client that the suppository needs to stay in the rectum for at least 15 minutes to be adequately absorbed by the intestine. Premature expulsion will render the laxative ineffective. Lifestyle modifications have an effect on bowel regularity. The nurse will include health promotion recommendations when educating the older adult client about bowel health. Fiber and fluid intake along with physical activity are key lifestyle modifications to preventing constipation. The nurse will not emphasize that it is expected for older adult clients to use laxatives due to normal effects of aging. Lifestyle changes should always be the first intervention and can be highly effective for older adult clients as with any other age population.

A nurse is performing an abdominal assessment of a client before administering a large-volume cleansing enema. Which assessment technique would be performed last?

Palpation Explanation: The abdominal assessment should be performed in the following sequence: inspection, auscultation, percussion, palpation.

Which medical diagnosis is most likely to necessitate testing for fecal occult blood?

Peptic Ulcer Explanation: Any health problem that involves bleeding of the GI tract, such as peptic ulcer disease, may require fecal occult blood testing (FOBT). Constipation does not indicate a need for FOBT unless hardened stool is suspected of causing GI trauma. Similarly, GERD may require FOBT only if esophageal bleeding is suspected. Liver disease is not a common indication for FOBT.

A nurse is documenting the eating habits of a client who wants to include more fiber in the diet. Which is the best statement to include?

Plans to eat a snack of fruit twice per day. Explanation: By snacking on fruits and vegetables, the client can increase fiber in the diet. The amount of fish, protein, and fat do not relate to increasing or absorbing fiber in the diet.

The nurse is educating a parent who has called the clinic reporting the child is experiencing diarrhea. What suggestions should the nurse provide to the parent? Select all that apply.

Provide a diet high in complex carbohydrates, meats, fruits, and vegetables Replace fluids that have sodium chloride, potassium, and glucose Assume an age appropriate diet when possible Explanation: Infants and children experiencing diarrhea require more fluid and electrolyte replacement compared to adults. Encourage fluids, especially oral rehydration solutions containing sodium chloride, potassium, and glucose (Pedialyte, Infalyte, and Ricelyte), and make them accessible for the child. Breast feeding should continue through the diarrhea. Children should resume an age-appropriate diet when tolerated. The diet should be high in complex carbohydrates, meats, fruits, and vegetables. Simple sugars such as fruit juices should be avoided. Special diets such as the BRAT diet (bananas, rice cereal, applesauce, and toast) are no longer recommended because of the lack of nutritional value

While administering a cleansing enema, the client displays lightheadedness, nausea, and has clammy skin. The nurse would implement which priority action?

Stop the procedure, monitor heart rate and blood pressure. Explanation: When administering an enema, the client's vagus nerve may be stimulated, causing a decrease in the heart rate. The client will exhibit nausea, lightheadedness, dizziness, and clammy skin. The procedure should be stopped, heart rate and blood pressure monitored, and the health care provider notified. The other responses are not appropriate for a client exhibiting a vagal response

The student nurse studying bowel elimination learns that which statements accurately describe the process of peristalsis? Select all that apply.

The autonomic nervous system innervates the muscles of the colon. Peristalsis occurs every 3 to 12 minutes. Mass peristaltic sweeps occur 1 to 4 times each 24-hour period in most people. Mass peristalsis often occurs after food has been ingested. Explanation: The autonomic nervous system innervates the muscles of the colon. The parasympathetic nervous system stimulates movement, while the sympathetic system inhibits movement. Contractions of the circular and longitudinal muscles of the intestine (peristalsis) occur every 3 to 12 minutes, moving waste products along the length of the intestine continuously. Mass peristalsis often occurs after food has been ingested, accounting for the urge to defecate that often occurs after meals. 33% to 50% of ingested food waste is normally excreted in the stool within 24 hours.

The newly hired graduate nurse is preparing to administer a cleansing enema. The nurse educator will intervene if which action is taken by the graduate nurse?

The graduate places the client in Fowler's position. Explanation: Placing the client in Fowler's position during an enema will cause the solution to remain in the rectum; expulsion of the solution happens rapidly with minimal cleansing accomplished. The solution should be retained until the desired results are achieved. The solution should not be too hot or too cold, but administered at room temperature. Most people are uncomfortable about discussing the intestinal tract and bowel elimination, so this is an opportune time to discuss it.

The nurse is administering an oil-retention enema to a client. Which nursing actions in this procedure are performed correctly? Select all that apply.

The nurse administers the oil-retention enema at body temperature. The nurse instructs the client to retain the oil for at least 30 minutes. The nurse administers a cleansing enema after the oil-retention enema. Explanation: The nurse would administer the oil-retention enema at body temperature. This prevents any injuries or discomfort if given at this temperature. The nurse would instruct the client to retain the enema for at least 30 minutes for best results. The nurse would administer a cleansing enema after the oil-retention enema. This would clean the colon of any oil residue after the oil-retention enema. A small rectal tube is used for the enema.

When caring for a client with a new colostomy, which assessment finding would be considered abnormal and would need to be reported to the physician?

The stoma is prolapsed. Explanation: If the stoma is found to be prolapsed, the surgeon must be notified immediately. The stoma should be pink and remain on the abdominal surface. The mucosal tissue is fragile, so a small amount of bleeding may be normal.

The nursing student is performing a focused gastrointestinal assessment. Which action performed by the student would indicate to nurse faculty that further instruction is needed?

The student sequenced from auscultation to inspection, and percussion to palpation. Explanation: The correct sequence for an abdominal assessment is inspection, then auscultation (done before palpation because palpation may disturb normal peristalsis and bowel motility), followed by percussion and palpation. The client should urinate before assessment and the knees should be flexed with the abdomen during the examination.

The nurse is teaching a client with a new ostomy about skin care to preserve tissue integrity at the stomal site. Which teaching will the nurse provide regarding cleansing the stoma?

Use water and mild soap. Explanation: The nurse will teach the client to use water and mild soap to cleanse the stoma. Water only will not provide cleansing; an alcohol-based sanitizer will dry the stoma; mineral oil is not appropriate for cleansing.

Which factor is related to developmental changes in bowel habits for older adult clients?

Weakened pelvic muscles lead to constipation. Explanation: Weakened pelvic muscles and decreased activity levels contribute to constipation in older adults. Increasing dietary fiber does not decrease peristalsis. Lactose intolerance is not a developmental change in older adults. Peeling fruit does not impact bowel habits in the older adults.

The nurse is presenting a lecture on ostomy bowel elimination at a community clinic. When questioned by the clients, which food would the nurse suggest as natural intestinal deodorizers?

Yogurt and buttermilk Explanation: Buttermilk, parsley, and yogurt are foods that are natural intestinal deodorizers. Dried lentils, asparagus, turnips, fish, onions, and garlic are foods that produce odor.

The risk for developing colorectal cancer during one's lifetime is 1 in 19. Nurses play an integral role in the promotion of colorectal cancer screening. What are risk factors for colorectal cancer? Select all that apply.

age 50 and older a positive family history a history of inflammatory bowel disease Explanation: The risks for colorectal cancer increase after the age of 50, with a positive family history of colorectal cancer, and also with Crohn's disease. An important nursing responsibility is to teach clients about annual screening beginning at 50, encourage endoscopic exam every 5 years, or colonoscopy every 10 years for normal-risk individuals.

The student nurse is preparing a presentation on bowel elimination. Which would be a potential cause of diarrhea that the student should include? Select all that apply.

antibiotics acute stress Explanation: Acute stress, anxiety, and antibiotic use can all cause diarrhea. Opioid use and depression can cause constipation. Increased physical activity can increase peristalsis but this does not necessarily cause diarrhea.

A client wishes to increase fiber to promote more regular bowel movements. Which food will the nurse recommend that the client consume?

brown rice Explanation: The nurse will recommend brown rice, a food that is high in dietary fiber. Other selections listed do not contain high fiber.

The nurse is educating a new colostomy client on gas-producing foods. Which food is a gas-producing food the client may choose to avoid?

brussels sprouts Explanation: Certain foods (e.g., cabbage, onions, legumes) often increase the amount of flatus produced in the intestine.

A student nurse studying human anatomy knows that a structure of the large intestine is the:

cecum Explanation: The small intestine consists of the duodenum, jejunum, and ileum. The large intestine consists of the cecum, colon (ascending, transverse, descending, and sigmoid), and rectum.

A client scheduled for a colonoscopy is scheduled to receive a hypertonic enema prior to the procedure. A hypertonic enema is classified as which type of enema?

cleansing enema Explanation: The most common types of solutions used for cleansing enemas are tap water, normal saline, soap solution, and hypertonic solution. Cleansing enemas are used to relieve constipation or fecal impaction, promote visualization of the intestinal tract by radiographic or instrument examination (colonoscopy), establish regular bowel function, and prevent the involuntary escape of fecal material during surgical procedures. Carminative enemas are classified as retention enemas and are used to expel flatus from the rectum and provide relief from gaseous distention. Return-flow enemas are also occasionally prescribed to expel flatus.

The nurse is scheduling tests for a client who is experiencing bowel alterations. What is the most logical sequence of tests to ensure an accurate diagnosis?

fecal occult blood test, barium studies, endoscopic examination Explanation: There is a specific sequence that bowel tests must be performed due to the results of certain contrasts and other preps that must be given. The nurse would verify that the tests are done in the correct order: Fecal occult blood test, barium studies, and then endoscopic examination.

A cleansing enema has been ordered for the client to draw water into the bowel. Which type of solution does the nurse gather?

hypertonic saline Explanation: The nurse will gather a hypertonic solution, which is used to irritate local tissue and draw water into the bowel. Mineral oil is used for lubrication and softening of stool. Tap water is used to distend the rectum and moisten stool; soap and water are used to do the same plus irritate local tissue.

The type of stool that will be expelled into the ostomy bag by a client who has undergone surgery for an ileostomy will be:

liquid consistency. Explanation: Stool produced from an ileostomy is liquid and contains large quantities of electrolytes.

Digital rectal examination confirms that a client has an impaction, and an enema solution has been ordered to lubricate the stool and intestinal mucosa without distending the intestine. What solution best meets this client's needs?

oil Explanation: Mineral, olive, or cottonseed oil is used to lubricate the stool and intestinal mucosa without distending the intestine. Water and normal saline do not have these qualities. Soap has lubricant properties but primarily acts by irritating the intestinal mucosa.

The nurse is caring for an older adult client with diarrhea. Which assessment finding requires immediate nursing intervention?

skin turgor response 5 seconds Explanation: Skin turgor response that is greater than 3 seconds, especially in an older adult clients, requires nursing intervention. Older adults with diarrhea can more easily become dehydrated and develop fluid and electrolyte imbalances. Other assessment findings are normal.