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 A
Explanation
Choice A: Hemorrhage
Hemorrhage is a significant and immediate postoperative complication following a transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP). This procedure involves removing part of the prostate gland, which can lead to bleeding. Monitoring for signs of hemorrhage, such as a significant drop in blood pressure, increased heart rate, and visible blood in the urine, is crucial. Early detection and intervention are essential to manage bleeding and prevent severe complications. Hemorrhage can lead to hypovolemic shock if not addressed promptly, making it the priority complication to monitor for.
Choice B: Infection
Infection is a common postoperative complication, but it typically develops a few days after surgery rather than immediately. Signs of infection include fever, chills, and increased white blood cell count. While it is important to monitor for infection, it is not the immediate priority compared to hemorrhage. Preventive measures, such as maintaining sterile techniques and administering prophylactic antibiotics, can help reduce the risk of infection.
Choice C: Urinary retention
Urinary retention can occur after TURP due to swelling or blood clots obstructing the urethra. This condition can cause discomfort and increase the risk of bladder damage. Monitoring for urinary retention involves assessing the client’s ability to void and checking for bladder distention. While it is an important complication to monitor, it is not as immediately life-threatening as hemorrhage.
Choice D: Pain
Pain is a common postoperative symptom and should be managed effectively to ensure the client’s comfort and recovery. However, pain management is typically addressed through prescribed analgesics and is not considered a life-threatening complication. Monitoring for pain and providing appropriate pain relief are essential aspects of postoperative care, but they do not take precedence over monitoring for hemorrhage.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Saying “Maybe next time you can have a vaginal delivery” is not supportive and may minimize the client’s current feelings of disappointment. It is important to acknowledge and validate the client’s emotions rather than focusing on future possibilities.
Choice B reason:
This response, “It sounds like you are feeling sad that things didn’t go as planned,” is empathetic and validates the client’s feelings. It shows that the nurse is listening and understands the client’s disappointment, which is crucial for emotional support.
Choice C reason:
While it is true that having a healthy baby is important, saying “At least you know you have a healthy baby” can come across as dismissive of the client’s feelings. It is essential to address the client’s emotions directly rather than shifting the focus.
Choice D reason:
Telling the client “You can resume sensations sooner than if you had delivered vaginally” is not relevant to the client’s expressed feelings of disappointment about not having a natural childbirth. This response does not address the emotional aspect of the client’s experience.
