Before the evacuation of a fecal impaction from a comatose client, the nurse applies an anesthetic jelly to the rectum in order to
A) decrease the risk of rectal tearing.
B) lessen the discomfort to hemorrhoids.
C) prevent possible seizures.
D) reduce discomfort of dislodging the fecal mass.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Clients with altered levels of consciousness need a daily bowel program that includes a regular schedule of stool softeners, suppositories, and performing digital removal of stool. However, stretching of the anus may cause seizures or an increase in intracranial pressure (ICP). A specific caution the nurse should incorporate into the plan of care is to use anesthetic jelly. The nurse should consult the physician before performing a digital removal of stool.

Before the Evacuation of a Fecal Impaction from a Comatose