Author Question: When assessing an elderly client for constipation, the nurse learns that the client uses mineral oil ... (Read 61 times)

WhattoUnderstand · **on:** Jul 22, 2018

When assessing an elderly client for constipation, the nurse learns that the client uses mineral oil daily to relieve constipation. Which of the following is an effect of prolonged use of mineral oil to relieve constipation?

A) Reduces elasticity in intestinal walls.
B) Decreased absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.
C) Periodic bleeding and tissue trauma.
D) Development of healthier bowel elimination patterns.

Question 2

When assessing lung sounds, the nurse applies the chest piece to the client's upper back, but avoids placing it over the scapulae or ribs. How does this intervention help in the assessment?

A) Helps to clear the air passages and open the alveoli.
B) Reduces sound from air turbulence and prevents hyperventilation.
C) Minimizes pain or discomfort to the client.
D) Facilitates hearing sounds in the upper and lower lobes.

kaykay69 · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 22, 2018

Answer to Question 1

B
Feedback:
Elderly clients who use mineral oil to prevent or relieve constipation need to be informed that prolonged use affects the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins such as A, D, E, and K. Bleeding and tissue trauma does not usually occur due to use of mineral oil for constipation but during the digital removal of faction. Use of mineral oil for constipation does not develop healthier bowel elimination patterns, but the use of bulk-forming products containing psyllium or polycarbophil does. Loss of elasticity in intestinal walls and slower motility is due to old age, not use of mineral oil.

Answer to Question 2

D
Feedback:
The nurse should avoid placing the chest piece over the scapulae or ribs when applying the chest piece to the upper back in order to facilitate hearing sounds in the upper and lower lobes. If crackles and gurgles are audible during the assessment, the nurse may ask the client to cough or breathe deeply, as doing so helps to clear the air passages and open the alveoli. The nurse instructs the client to breathe in and out through an open mouth, deeply but slowly, in order to reduce the sound from air turbulence and to prevent hyperventilation. This placement does not avoid discomfort to the client.