ATI LPN
Fundamentals of Nursing: The Art and Science of Person-Centered Care Tenth, North American Edition
Chapter 39 : Bowel Elimination Questions
Question 1 of 5
For a patient with which health problem or issue would a nurse expect the health care provider to order colostomy irrigation?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Colostomy irrigation is indicated for left-sided end colostomies in the sigmoid colon (
B) to promote regular evacuation. IBS (
A), postradiation damage (
C), and Crohn disease (
D) are contraindications due to bowel instability.
Question 2 of 5
A nurse is assisting a patient to change an ostomy appliance when they note the stoma is protruding into the bag. What would be the nurse's first action in this situation?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: A protruding stoma suggests prolapse; the first action is having the patient rest for 30 minutes (
C) to see if it resolves. Reassuring (
A) is incorrect as prolapse isn't normal, notifying the provider (
B) is premature, and a larger appliance (
D) doesn't address the issue.
Question 3 of 5
A nurse is caring for an older adult who reports persistent constipation and has a number of laxative prescriptions on the MAR. Which medication would the nurse avoid for this patient?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Saline osmotic laxatives (
A) can cause fluid/electrolyte imbalances in older adults, especially with kidney or cardiac issues, and should be avoided. Bulk-forming (B,
C) and stool softeners (
D) are safer options.
Question 4 of 5
A nurse caring for a patient who reports frequent constipation learns the patient uses phosphate and sodium citrate enemas several times weekly. What education would the nurse provide?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Phosphate and sodium citrate enemas (
C) are contraindicated in kidney failure due to risk of hyperphosphatemia. Fiber (
A) promotes regularity, activity (
B) aids peristalsis, and fluid restriction (
D) worsens constipation.
Question 5 of 5
A nurse asks a patient for a stool sample to perform the guaiac test. How does the nurse best explain the purpose of this test?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The guaiac test (
C) detects occult blood in stool, screening for GI bleeding or cancer. It doesn't replace colonoscopy (
A), detect organisms (
B), or assess antibodies (
D).