A patient is diagnosed with gastroenteritis. The nurse should assess which serum laboratory value first?
1. sodium
2. bicarbonate
3. calcium
4. potassium
Question 2
The nurse is implementing a bowel training program for a patient. What should be included in this patient's plan of care?
1. Assess the patient to determine the best time of day to use the commode for defecation.
2. Keep the bedpan near the patient at all times.
3. Instruct the patient not to attempt to use the bathroom unattended.
4. Stay with the patient while defecating.
Question 3
A patient with irritable bowel syndrome asks the nurse, Why did the doctor order something for depression? How should the nurse respond?
1. Didn't the doctor tell you that you are depressed?
2. Depression can be caused by irritable bowel syndrome.
3. Did the doctor not give you an opportunity to ask questions?
4. These medications help with the symptoms associated with your bowel problem.
Question 4
The nurse is providing care to a patient admitted with acute diarrhea. What intervention would assist in this patient's care?
1. Provide a normal diet as tolerated.
2. Hold all medications until the diarrhea stops.
3. Provide clear liquids in small amounts.
4. Encourage normal activities of daily living in the hospital room.
Question 5
The nurse is caring for a patient with a fecal impaction. Which type of enemas will best assist in relieving the fecal impaction?
1. normal saline
2. oil retention
3. tap water
4. soap suds
Question 6
A patient is prescribed a low-residue diet. What foods should the nurse instruct the patient to avoid while on this diet?
1. wine, vinegar, beer, liquor
2. rice, grains, pasta
3. canned vegetables
4. chilled fruit gelatin desserts
Question 7
A patient with Crohn disease is experiencing weight loss. What should be included in this patient's plan of care?
1. a low-calorie, high-milk diet
2. a low-calorie, low-residue diet
3. a high-calorie, low-protein diet
4. a high-calorie, low-fat diet
Question 8
The nurse is preparing to assess a patient with diverticulitis. Which area of the patient's abdomen should the nurse expect to palpate a mass?
1. upper-right quadrant
2. lower-left quadrant
3. area of McBurney point
4. epigastric region