The nurse is developing a plan of care for a patient with diverticulitis. What problems is the nurse most likely to include in the problem list? Directions for drag and drop: Click on your answer choice in the left Possible Answers section and drag and drop into the Selected Answers section.
Explanation & Rationale
A. Deficient fluid volume: Patients with diverticulitis may experience nausea, vomiting, and decreased oral intake, increasing the risk for dehydration and electrolyte imbalance. Monitoring fluid status and providing adequate hydration are key interventions to prevent hypovolemia and maintain perfusion. B. Bowel irregularity: Inflammation of the diverticula can alter normal bowel function, leading to constipation or, less commonly, diarrhea. Identifying bowel irregularities allows the nurse to implement interventions such as dietary modifications, stool monitoring, and gentle activity to promote healthy bowel movements once acute inflammation subsides. C. Acute Pain: Abdominal pain, often localized to the lower left quadrant, is a hallmark symptom of diverticulitis. Pain management is essential for patient comfort, reducing stress responses, and allowing participation in care activities. Analgesics and supportive measures are included in the plan of care. D. Impaired urinary elimination: Urinary elimination is typically unaffected in uncomplicated diverticulitis. Unless there is coexisting urinary tract involvement or a complication such as fistula formation, this is not a priority in the care plan.