The nurse suspects that a patient with ulcerative colitis has ...

[DyllonKazuo]

The nurse suspects that a patient with ulcerative colitis has taken a dose of diphenoxylate (Lomotil) to help with diarrhea. What did the nurse assess to make this clinical decision?
 
  Select all that apply.
 
  1. fever
  2. tachycardia
  3. hypotension
  4. low urine output
  5. abdominal cramps

Question 2

A patient has been experiencing diarrhea for several days. What should the nurse assess to determine if adverse effects are occurring within this patient?
 
  Select all that apply.
 
  1. skin turgor
  2. muscle tone
  3. serum potassium level
  4. serum magnesium level
  5. orthostatic blood pressure

[JCABRERA33]

Answer to Question 1

Correct Answer: 1, 2, 3, 5
Toxic megacolon may be triggered by the use of laxatives by the person with ulcerative colitis. Manifestations of toxic megacolon include fever, tachycardia, hypotension, and abdominal cramps. Low urine output is not a manifestation of toxic megacolon.

Answer to Question 2

Correct Answer: 1, 3, 4, 5
Diarrhea can have devastating effects. Water and electrolytes are lost in diarrheal stool. This can lead to dehydration. With severe diarrhea, potassium and magnesium are lost, potentially leading to hypokalemia and hypomagnesemia Monitor orthostatic vital signs and skin turgor to identify and respond to possible adverse effects of diarrhea. Muscle tone will not help identify possible adverse effects of diarrhea.

[DyllonKazuo]

Thank you

[JCABRERA33]

Happy to help you