A student nurse is caring for 67-year-old patient who is ...

[fbq8i]

A student nurse is caring for 67-year-old patient who is experiencing left-sided weakness caused by a stroke. The student nurse is providing patient teaching regarding the use of a quad-cane for ambulation.
 
  Which of the following statements is correct? a. You should use the cane on the stronger side of the body.
  b. Move the stronger leg with the cane.
  c. When walking, advance the weaker leg past the cane.
  d. Your body weight should be supported by the cane and stronger leg.

Question 2

To maintain normal elimination patterns in a hospitalized patient, why should the nurse encourage the patient to take time to defecate 1 hour after meals?
 
  a. The presence of food stimulates peristalsis.
  b. Mass colonic peristalsis occurs at this time.
  c. Irregularity helps to develop a habitual pattern.
  d. Neglecting the urge to defecate can cause diarrhea.

[kiamars2010]

Answer to Question 1

A
Make sure the patient keeps the cane on the stronger side of the body. The patient moves the weaker leg to the cane, which divides body weight between the cane and the stronger leg. The patient then advances the stronger leg past the cane so the weaker leg and the body weight is supported by the cane and weaker leg.

Answer to Question 2

B
Defecation is most likely to occur after meals. If the patient attempts to defecate during the time when mass colonic peristalsis occurs, the chances of successfully evacuating the rectum are greater. When stool reaches the rectum, distention causes relaxation of the internal sphincter and awareness of the need to defecate. Establishing a consistent time for bowel hygiene is one evidenced-based practice to avoid constipation. Ignoring the urge to defecate and not taking time to defecate completely are common causes of constipation.

[fbq8i]

Thank you!

[kiamars2010]

Always glad to help...