A nurse is teaching a client who has a new prescription for pancrelipase to aid in digestion. The nurse should inform the client to expect which of the following gastrointestinal changes?
Decreased fat in stools
Decreased watery stools
Decreased mucus in stools
Decreased black tarry stools
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A: Decreased fat in stools
Pancrelipase is a combination of digestive enzymes, including lipase, protease, and amylase, which help break down fats, proteins, and carbohydrates. One of the primary benefits of pancrelipase is its ability to improve fat digestion and absorption. Clients with pancreatic insufficiency often experience steatorrhea, which is the presence of excess fat in stools, making them bulky, greasy, and foul-smelling. By aiding in the digestion of fats, pancrelipase reduces the fat content in stools, leading to more normal bowel movements.
Choice B: Decreased watery stools
While pancrelipase can improve overall digestion, it is not specifically known for decreasing watery stools. Watery stools can result from various conditions, including infections, inflammatory bowel disease, or other gastrointestinal disorders. Pancrelipase primarily targets the digestion of macronutrients and may not directly affect the consistency of stools unless the watery stools are due to malabsorption of fats.
Choice C: Decreased mucus in stools
Mucus in stools can be a sign of inflammation or irritation in the gastrointestinal tract, often associated with conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or infections. Pancrelipase does not specifically target mucus production in the intestines. Its primary function is to aid in the digestion of fats, proteins, and carbohydrates, rather than addressing mucus-related issues.
Choice D: Decreased black tarry stools
Black tarry stools, also known as melena, are typically a sign of gastrointestinal bleeding, particularly from the upper GI tract. This condition requires immediate medical attention and is not related to the use of pancrelipase. Pancrelipase is not indicated for treating or preventing gastrointestinal bleeding and would not affect the presence of black tarry stools.
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Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: Using the palm of the hand, feel for lumps using a circular motion:
This instruction is incorrect. The correct method for a breast self-exam involves using the pads of the three middle fingers, not the palm of the hand. The fingers should move in a circular motion to feel for lumps or abnormalities.
Choice B reason: Expect some breast dimpling or discharge with age:
This is misleading and potentially harmful advice. While some changes in the breast can occur with age, dimpling or discharge can also be signs of breast cancer and should be reported to a healthcare provider immediately.
Choice C reason: Breasts can be examined in the shower with soapy hands:
This is correct. Examining the breasts in the shower with soapy hands can make it easier to feel for lumps or changes. The soapy water helps the fingers glide smoothly over the skin, making it easier to detect any abnormalities.
Choice D reason: For those who have a menstrual cycle, perform a BSE every month, 2 or 3 days before menstruation:
This instruction is incorrect. The best time to perform a breast self-exam is a few days after the menstrual period ends, when the breasts are least likely to be swollen or tender.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: Chicken broth:
Chicken broth is part of a clear liquid diet, which is typically recommended immediately after surgery to ensure the digestive system is not overburdened. While nutritious, it does not meet the criteria for a full liquid diet, which includes more substantial liquids.
Choice B reason: Flavored gelatin:
Flavored gelatin is also a component of a clear liquid diet. It is easy to digest and provides some hydration and minimal calories. However, it does not provide the nutritional value needed for a full liquid diet.
Choice C reason: Cranberry juice:
Cranberry juice is another item that fits within a clear liquid diet. It is hydrating and provides some vitamins but lacks the protein and calories necessary for a full liquid diet.
Choice D reason: Skim milk:
Skim milk is appropriate for a full liquid diet. It provides essential nutrients, including protein, calcium, and vitamins, which are necessary for recovery after surgery4. Full liquid diets are designed to be more nutritious than clear liquid diets and include items like milk, cream soups, and smooth dairy products.