Author Question: A client has had abdominal surgery and 72 hours later develops abdominal distention and absence of ... (Read 89 times)

olgavictoria · **on:** Jul 22, 2018

A client has had abdominal surgery and 72 hours later develops abdominal distention and absence of bowel sounds with pain. The nurse suspects the client has:

A) a wound infection.
B) need of greater pain relief.
C) increased activity.
D) paralytic ileus.

Question 2

The student nurse is administering a large-volume enema to a client. The client complains of abdominal cramping. What should the student nurse do first?

A) Increase the flow of the enema for approximately 30 seconds then decrease it to the prior flow rate.
B) Stop the administration of the enema and notify the physician.
C) Stop the adminstration of the enema momentarily.
D) Increase the flow of the enema until all of the solution has been administered.

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

Answer to Question 1

Ans: D
Feedback:
An obstruction that blocks the passage of flatus and intestinal chime or feces is a primary cause of abdominal distention. Paralytic ileus and abdominal tumors are types of bowel obstruction that produce distention.

Answer to Question 2

Ans: C
Feedback:
If the client reports abdominal discomfort or cramping, the nurse should momentarily stop the flow of solution. Increasing the flow of the enema may cause more cramping and discomfort. Cramping and discomfort are common complaints during enema administration so there is no need to notify the physician.