A nurse is teaching a newly licensed nurse about physiological changes in the digestive system that occur with aging.
The nurse should include older adults might experience which of the following physiological changes?
Increased muscle tone of the bowel.
Increased gastric acid production.
Decreased pH of the stomach.
Decreased intestinal peristalsis.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A rationale
Aging usually leads to a decrease in muscle tone of the bowel rather than an increase, which can result in slower bowel movements and constipation.
Choice B rationale
Gastric acid production tends to decrease with age, not increase. This can affect the digestion and absorption of nutrients, and also increase the risk of stomach infections.
Choice C rationale
The pH of the stomach tends to become less acidic (increase) as one ages, not decrease. This is often due to the reduced production of gastric acid.
Choice D rationale
Decreased intestinal peristalsis is a common physiological change in older adults. This slowing down of the intestinal movements can lead to constipation and other digestive issues.
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Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
The end of the stoma is typically not painful after the procedure. Pain at the stoma site could indicate complications such as infection or ischemia.
Choice B rationale
A healthy stoma should be pink or red in color. A purple color could indicate compromised blood flow or other complications that require medical attention.
Choice C rationale
The stoma is typically placed in the right lower abdomen to allow for easier management and care, as it is usually associated with the terminal ileum.
Choice D rationale
After an ileostomy, the stool is usually liquid to semi-formed, not solid, because the colon, which absorbs water to solidify stool, is bypassed.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
A sigmoid colostomy usually produces stool that is more formed compared to an ileostomy. This is because the colostomy is created from the sigmoid colon, where water absorption occurs.
Choice B rationale
The stoma should not be painful after the procedure. Pain may indicate complications, and the stoma itself lacks nerve endings.
Choice C rationale
The stoma should be a bright red or pink color, indicating good blood supply. A purple color could suggest ischemia or poor blood flow.
Choice D rationale
A sigmoid colostomy is typically located in the left lower abdomen because the sigmoid colon is situated in this area of the body.