An older adult is admitted through the emergency department with complaints of nausea, abdominal tenderness, and continual stooling. On assessment, the nurse notes abdominal distention, smearing of stool on undergarments, and hypoactive bowel sounds LUQ and LLQ. The patient is unable to determine when the last bowel movement was. What is the nurse's priority assessment?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The symptoms described, such as continual stooling, abdominal distention, and inability to recall the last bowel movement, suggest a possible fecal impaction, which is a priority to assess and address.

An Older Adult Is Admitted Through the Emergency Department with Complaints