During the assessment of a postoperative person's bowel sounds, the nurse auscultates high-pitched sounds over all four abdominal quadrants. What might these findings indicate?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

High-pitched sounds over all four abdominal quadrants can indicate a paralytic ileus, a condition where there is a lack of movement in the intestines that can cause a buildup of gas and fluids. This can occur after abdominal surgery and is a concern that needs to be addressed.

During the Assessment of a Postoperative Person's Bowel Sounds, the Nurse