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    Ati Rn Adult Medical Surgical 2023 Proctored Exam
    Select All That Apply

    A nurse is caring for a client who reports abdominal pain. The nurse is caring for a client who has abdominal pain. Which of the following actions should the nurse take? Select all that apply.

    Explanation & Rationale

    A. The client’s findings (left lower quadrant pain, fever, elevated WBC count, CT evidence of bowel wall thickening) are consistent with acute diverticulitis. During the acute inflammatory phase, the bowel must be rested to reduce stimulation and prevent perforation. Keeping the client NPO helps decrease intestinal activity, limits further inflammation, and prepares the client for potential procedures or surgery if the condition worsens. B. Bed rest helps reduce metabolic demand and minimize abdominal discomfort. Movement can exacerbate pain and increase the risk of complications such as perforation during the acute phase of diverticulitis. Limiting activity also supports overall stabilization while diagnostic tests and treatment are underway. C. The client has abdominal distention, nausea, vomiting, worsening pain, and guarding, which suggest possible bowel obstruction or ileus. A nasogastric tube may be required for gastric decompression to relieve vomiting and abdominal pressure. Preparing for NG tube insertion is appropriate given the severity of symptoms. D. High-fiber foods are recommended after recovery from diverticulitis to prevent future episodes. During the acute phase, fiber increases bowel activity and can worsen inflammation, pain, and the risk of perforation. E. Laxatives stimulate bowel motility, which is contraindicated in acute diverticulitis. Increased peristalsis may raise intraluminal pressure and increase the risk of bowel rupture. F. High-Fowler’s position can increase tension on the abdominal muscles and worsen pain. Clients with acute abdominal inflammation are more comfortable lying supine with knees flexed, which helps relax the abdominal muscles. G. Enemas are contraindicated in diverticulitis because they increase intraluminal pressure and significantly raise the risk of bowel perforation.

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