A patient who had bowel surgery 2 days ago has orders for morphine sulphate 4 mg IV every 2 hours and a clear liquid diet.The patient tells the nurse that she feels distended and has gas pains.What is the most appropriate intervention in response to the patient's complaint?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Assisting the patient to ambulate in the hall can help relieve gas pains and promote bowel function. Withholding oral fluids and food is not appropriate as the patient has orders for a clear liquid diet. Administering the prescribed morphine sulphate may worsen the patient's symptoms as morphine can slow down bowel motility. Obtaining an order for a laxative may be appropriate, but it would not be the most immediate and effective intervention for the patient's complaint.

A Patient Who Had Bowel Surgery 2 Days Ago Has