Which of the following symptoms indicate that diarrhea is severe?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In this NCLEX question on gastrointestinal disorders, the correct answer is B) Blood and mucus are passed with the stool. This symptom indicates severe diarrhea because it suggests the presence of inflammation or infection in the gastrointestinal tract, which can lead to complications such as dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and potential sepsis. Option A) Bowel sounds are hyperactive is incorrect because hyperactive bowel sounds are more commonly associated with conditions like gastroenteritis or early obstruction rather than indicating the severity of diarrhea specifically. Option C) The client experiences tenesmus is incorrect because tenesmus refers to a constant feeling of the need to pass stool, which can be seen in conditions like inflammatory bowel disease, but it does not necessarily indicate the severity of diarrhea. Option D) The client has a fever is incorrect because while fever can occur with severe diarrhea due to an underlying infection or inflammation, it is a nonspecific symptom and may not always be present in cases of severe diarrhea. Educationally, it is important for nursing students to understand the significance of various symptoms in gastrointestinal disorders to provide appropriate care and interventions. Recognizing severe symptoms like blood and mucus in the stool can prompt timely interventions to prevent complications and promote patient outcomes. Understanding the difference between general symptoms and those specific to severe diarrhea is crucial for accurate clinical assessment and decision-making in practice.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is option B) 2500 calories. This recommendation is based on the average daily caloric intake required for an adult to maintain their weight and overall health. Explanation: A) 2000 calories: This option is lower than the recommended daily caloric intake for the average adult. Consuming only 2000 calories may lead to inadequate energy levels and potential nutrient deficiencies. C) 3000 calories: This option is higher than the recommended daily caloric intake for most average adults. Consuming 3000 calories daily without increased physical activity can lead to weight gain and potential health issues like obesity. D) 3500 calories: This option is significantly higher than the recommended daily caloric intake for the average adult. Consuming 3500 calories daily is excessive and can lead to rapid weight gain, obesity, and various health complications. Educational Context: Understanding the appropriate caloric intake for adults is crucial for maintaining a healthy weight, energy levels, and overall well-being. It is essential to educate individuals on the importance of balanced nutrition, including the right amount of calories based on factors like age, gender, activity level, and overall health goals. Providing this knowledge empowers individuals to make informed decisions about their dietary habits and promotes long-term health and wellness.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In the context of NCLEX questions on gastrointestinal disorders, the priority decision regarding the use of medications for obesity is crucial for safe and effective patient care. Option B, stating that over-the-counter (OTC) diet aids are safer than other agents and can be useful in controlling appetite, is the correct answer. This is because OTC diet aids are generally considered safer due to their lower potency and fewer side effects compared to prescription weight loss medications. Option C is incorrect because while it is true that drugs should be used as adjuncts to diet and exercise for obesity treatment, it does not specifically address the safety or efficacy of OTC diet aids. Option D is incorrect as it generalizes all weight control drugs as capable of altering CNS function, which is not universally true for all medications used in obesity treatment. In an educational context, it is important for nurses to understand the differences between various weight loss medications, including OTC options, prescription drugs, and their mechanisms of action, side effects, and appropriate patient education. Nurses should also be able to prioritize patient safety and provide evidence-based information to guide patients in making informed decisions about weight loss interventions.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is B) Report any bloody drainage from the NG tube. This is the priority action because post-esophagogastrostomy, the patient is at risk for complications such as hemorrhage, infection, or anastomotic leak. Bloody drainage can be indicative of a serious issue like hemorrhage, which requires immediate intervention to prevent further complications or deterioration. Option A is too vague and does not provide specific guidance on what action to take. Option C, maintaining the patient in semi-Fowler's or Fowler's position, is important for patient comfort and to prevent reflux but is not the priority over monitoring for potential complications. Option D, monitoring for abdominal distention, is relevant but not as critical as detecting bleeding, which can be life-threatening. Educationally, this question highlights the importance of prioritizing nursing actions based on the patient's condition post-surgery. It emphasizes the significance of recognizing and responding promptly to signs of complications to ensure optimal patient outcomes and safety. Nurses must be vigilant in assessing and reporting any abnormal findings to the healthcare team promptly.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C) Wear gloves and wash hands with soap and water. When caring for a patient with Clostridium difficile (C. diff), the most crucial aspect is to prevent the spread of the infection. C. diff is highly contagious and can be transmitted through spores that are resistant to many disinfectants. Wearing gloves and practicing proper hand hygiene with soap and water are essential to prevent the spread of the infection to other patients, healthcare workers, and the environment. Option A is incorrect because cleaning the entire room with ammonia is not the priority when caring for a patient with C. diff. While environmental cleaning is important, the immediate focus should be on preventing transmission through proper hand hygiene. Option B is incorrect because while probiotics may be beneficial in some cases to restore gut flora balance, it is not the priority when dealing with a C. diff infection. Option D is incorrect because alcohol-based hand sanitizers are not effective against C. diff spores. Washing hands with soap and water is necessary to mechanically remove the spores from the hands. In an educational context, it is crucial for nurses to understand the principles of infection control when caring for patients with infectious diseases like C. diff. Emphasizing the importance of proper hand hygiene, wearing appropriate personal protective equipment, and following standard precautions can help prevent the spread of infections in healthcare settings.