A nurse is assessing a patient who is on his 24-hours post-surgery for correction of an abdominal hernia. The nurse would like to determine if the patient's peristalsis has returned in order to start the diet because the patient's husband reported that the patient is asking for glass of water. What would be the first indicator that the nurse should expect?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The first indicator that the peristalsis has returned is when the patient has bowel sounds. Bowel sounds are the result of peristaltic movements that propel intestinal contents through the alimentary tract and cause characteristic sounds.

A Nurse Is Assessing a Patient Who Is on His