A client asks the nurse why expelled flatus is foul-smelling.What should the nurse respond?
A)The actions of microorganisms within the gastrointestinal tract are responsible for the odor.
B)The client's emotions are causing the gas formation.
C)The sensory nerves in the rectum are being stimulated.
D)The client has swallowed too much air while eating.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The foul odor of flatus is due to the breakdown of undigested food and other substances by bacteria in the large intestine. The byproducts of this bacterial fermentation process include gases such as hydrogen, methane, and sulfur compounds, which are responsible for the characteristic odor of flatus.

A Client Asks the Nurse Why Expelled Flatus Is Foul-Smelling