Asked by Stephanie Martinez on May 13, 2024
Verified
The nurse is caring for a patient who has been on bed rest for several weeks.The nurse notes that the patient is continually seeping liquid stool rectally.The nurse should take which action?
A) Hold the patient's antibiotics.
B) Put the patient on a bran diet.
C) Perform a digital rectal examination.
D) Increase the dosage of the patient's antibiotics.
Digital Rectal Examination
A diagnostic procedure where a healthcare professional inserts a lubricated, gloved finger into the rectum to check for abnormalities of organs or other structures in the pelvis and lower abdomen.
Liquid Stool
Stool with a watery consistency, indicating a variety of conditions from infections to dietary choices or digestive issues.
Bran Diet
A diet high in bran fiber, often recommended to improve digestive health and prevent constipation.
- Identify and manage complications in patients with bowel obstruction or constipation.
- Evaluate the effectiveness of bowel management strategies.
Verified Answer
LR
Lucas RicardoMay 17, 2024
Final Answer :
C
Explanation :
Continual seepage of diarrhea may occur with an impaction,and a digital rectal examination can verify its presence.Diarrhea is often due to diet or antibiotic use,which alters the normal flora in the gastrointestinal tract.However,a physician's order is required to change these,and continual seepage of stool is more likely the result of impaction;this should be ruled out first.
Learning Objectives
- Identify and manage complications in patients with bowel obstruction or constipation.
- Evaluate the effectiveness of bowel management strategies.