A nurse is teaching an older adult client who reports constipation. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include in the teaching?
Limit activity.
Drink four to five glasses of water daily.
Increase dietary intake of raw vegetables.
Bear down hard when defecating.
The Correct Answer is C
Rationale:
A. Limiting activity can contribute to constipation, so the nurse should encourage regular physical activity to promote bowel function.
B. Drinking four to five glasses of water daily is insufficient; older adults typically need at least 6-8 glasses to help prevent constipation.
C. Increasing dietary intake of raw vegetables provides fiber, which is essential for promoting bowel regularity and preventing constipation. This recommendation aligns with dietary guidelines for improving gastrointestinal health.
D. Bearing down hard when defecating can lead to complications such as hemorrhoids or valsalva maneuvers, so clients should be taught to relax and allow for a natural bowel movement instead.
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Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Using a moisturizer after cleaning helps keep the skin hydrated, preventing dryness and cracking, which can increase the risk of infection.
B. Allowing the skin to air dry can lead to excessive dryness, especially in vulnerable areas, potentially compromising the skin’s integrity.
C. Rubbing the skin firmly can cause irritation, damage, and increased risk of skin breakdown, particularly in individuals with fragile skin.
D. Washing the skin daily with hot water can strip the skin of natural oils, leading to dryness and irritation, which increases the risk of infection. Warm water should be used instead.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Rationale:
A. After a bowel preparation, it typically takes a few days for fecal output to occur from the new colostomy due to the emptying of the bowel before surgery.
B. Increasing raw vegetables immediately after surgery is not recommended, as they can cause gas and irritation to the bowel. Clients are usually advised to start with low-fiber foods and gradually introduce more fiber.
C. A healthy stoma should be pink to red in color. A purplish color may indicate compromised blood flow and should be reported to the healthcare provider.
D. A small amount of bleeding around the stoma is normal, especially when cleaning the area or changing the appliance, as the tissue is delicate and highly vascular.