A patient who has blunt abdominal trauma after an automobile accident is complaining of severe pain. A peritoneal lavage returns brown drainage with fecal material. Which action will the nurse plan to take next?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Return of brown drainage and fecal material suggests perforation of the bowel and the need for immediate surgery. Auscultation of bowel sounds, checking the temperature, and obtaining information about the accident are appropriate actions, but the priority is to prepare to send the patient for emergency surgery.

A Patient Who Has Blunt Abdominal Trauma After an Automobile