The nurse is caring for a client who had an exploratory laparotomy with a resection of a short segment of small bowel two days previously. The client has gas pains and abdominal distension. Which of the following nursing actions is best to take at this time?
A)Give a return-flow enema.
B)Assist the client to ambulate.
C)Administer the ordered IV morphine sulphate.
D)Insert the ordered promethazine suppository.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Ambulation will improve peristalsis and help the client eliminate flatus and reduce gas pain. Morphine will further reduce peristalsis. A return-flow enema may decrease the client's symptoms, but ambulation is less invasive and should be tried first. Promethazine is used as an antiemetic rather than to decrease gas pains or distension.

The Nurse Is Caring for a Client Who Had an Exploratory