A nurse is caring for a patient who has had diarrhea for the past week. Which additional assessment finding will the nurse expect?
A) Distended abdomen
B) Decreased skin turgor
C) Increased energy levels
D) Elevated blood pressure

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Chronic diarrhea can result in dehydration. Patients with chronic diarrhea are dehydrated with decreased skin turgor and blood pressure. Diarrhea also causes loss of electrolytes, nutrients, and fluid, which decreases energy levels. A distended abdomen could indicate constipation.

A Nurse Is Caring for a Patient Who Has Had