A client who had an operation 3 days ago reports not having a bowel movement since. What action by the nurse is best?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Postoperative decreases in bowel function are common. The nurse needs to conduct further assessment before creating a plan of care. The most reliable indicators of returning bowel function are passage of flatus; first bowel movement; tolerance of diet; and resolution of nausea, vomiting, and abdominal distention. The nurse would ask about the presence of flatus. Bowel sounds are not a reliable indicator of bowel function. There is no indication that the client's abdomen is distended. The client may or may not need a laxative, but the nurse needs to conduct a more thorough assessment.

A Client Who Had an Operation 3 Days Ago Reports