A patient is unable to control his bowels ff. a subarachnoid hemorrhage. Which intervention by the nurse can help reduce episodes of bowel incontinence?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Toilet the patient according to his pre-illness schedule, whether or not he feels the urge. This intervention helps establish a routine for bowel movements, which can aid in reducing episodes of bowel incontinence. By following the patient's pre-illness schedule, the nurse can help regulate bowel movements and prevent accidents. A: Asking the patient frequently if he has to have a bowel movement may not address the underlying issue of bowel incontinence. B: Placing incontinence pads on the patient's bed and chair is a reactive measure and does not address the root cause of the issue. D: Taking care not to embarrass the patient when incontinent episodes occur is important for emotional support but does not directly address reducing episodes of bowel incontinence.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Step 1: Monitoring electrolytes is essential to assess for potential imbalances due to the use of sodium bicarbonate, which can lead to hypokalemia and hypocalcemia. Step 2: Hypokalemia and hypocalcemia can result in serious complications such as cardiac arrhythmias and muscle weakness. Step 3: By monitoring electrolytes, the nurse can detect imbalances early and intervene promptly to prevent adverse effects. Summary: A: Drinking excessive water can lead to electrolyte imbalances and is not directly related to the use of sodium bicarbonate. B: Administering NaHCO3 IV is not within the nurse's scope of practice and should be done based on physician's orders. C: Continuing sodium bicarbonate for nausea may not be appropriate without monitoring electrolytes to prevent potential imbalances.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because inserting a mouth gag during a convulsive seizure can obstruct the airway and pose a choking hazard. Step-by-step rationale: A: Loosening clothing helps improve ventilation. C: Positioning on the side with head flexed forward prevents aspiration. D: Providing privacy is important for patient dignity and confidentiality. B is incorrect as it can be harmful.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because polyuria is a common complication following hypophysectomy (removal of the pituitary gland). This procedure can disrupt the regulation of antidiuretic hormone (ADH), leading to excessive urination. Choice A is incorrect as decreased stress would not cause polyuria. Choice B is unlikely as the onset of diabetes mellitus is not a typical immediate postoperative complication. Choice C is incorrect as removal of the pituitary gland would disrupt hormone regulation, possibly leading to polyuria, rather than being an expected result.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Placing the patient on the right side with support to the back, pillows for body alignment, hips slightly flexed, and a washcloth placed so that fingers are slightly curled is most appropriate for a patient with right-sided paralysis following a stroke. This position helps prevent contractures by maintaining proper alignment and positioning of the limbs. Placing the washcloth to curl the fingers helps prevent hand contractures. Supporting the back and keeping the hips slightly flexed also helps prevent pressure ulcers and maintains proper body alignment. Choice A is incorrect because tightly holding a rolled washcloth may cause discomfort and restrict blood flow. Choice C is incorrect because placing the patient on the back with a pillow under the knees does not address the specific needs of a patient with right-sided paralysis. Choice D is incorrect because lying on the back with trochanter rolls and a footboard does not address the specific needs of a patient with right-sided paralysis and may not prevent contractures effectively.