Claire, a 33 y.o. is on your floor with a possible bowel obstruction. Which intervention is a priority for her?
A. Obtain daily weights.
B. Measure abdominal girth.
C. Keep strict intake and output.
D. Encourage her to increase fluids.
Correct Answer: B. Measure abdominal girth.
Measuring abdominal girth provides quantitative information about increases or decreases in the amount of distention. Abdominal girths should be measured daily. Use the same measuring tape each time. Place the patient in the same position each time. Ensure that the tape measure is placed in the same position each time. This can be done by drawing small tick marks on the patient’s abdomen to indicate the position of the tape. Measure the patient at the same time each day.
Option A: Weigh daily; provides information about dietary needs and effectiveness of therapy. Avoid or limit foods that might cause or exacerbate abdominal cramping, flatulence (milk products, foods high in fiber or fat, alcohol, caffeinated beverages, chocolate, peppermint, tomatoes, orange juice).
Option C: Monitor I&O closely. Fluid and electrolyte losses must be replaced. Record intake and changes in symptomatology. Useful in identifying specific deficiencies and determining GI response to foods. Monitor I&O. Note number, character, and amount of stools; estimate insensible fluid losses (diaphoresis). Measure urine specific gravity; observe for oliguria.
Option D: Administer parenteral fluids, blood transfusions as indicated. Maintenance of bowel rest requires alternative fluid replacement to correct losses and anemia. Fluids containing sodium may be restricted in presence of regional enteritis.
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