A nurse is assessing a client who has had diarrhea for several days. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?
Explanation & Rationale
A. Hypothermia: Diarrhea usually causes fluid and electrolyte loss but does not directly result in hypothermia. More commonly, dehydration and electrolyte imbalances occur, while temperature changes are related to infection or other systemic causes. B. Rigid abdomen: A rigid abdomen is often associated with peritonitis or acute abdominal emergencies, not uncomplicated diarrhea. Diarrhea generally causes cramping, urgency, and loose stools without producing abdominal rigidity. C. Decreased bowel sounds: Diarrhea is caused by increased intestinal motility, so bowel sounds are typically hyperactive rather than decreased. Hypoactive or absent bowel sounds are seen more often with conditions like ileus or severe hypokalemia. D. Dehydration: Persistent diarrhea leads to significant fluid and electrolyte loss, resulting in dehydration. Expected findings include dry mucous membranes, poor skin turgor, hypotension, and concentrated urine output.