Question

A postoperative patient has abdominal discomfort with the absence of bowel sounds. Which is the most effective nursing action to help manage this abdominal discomfort?

1) Encourage frequent ambulation
2) Administer PRN pain meds
3) Ensure adequate fluids by mouth
4) Provide sufficient fiber in the diet

Answer 1

The most effective nursing action for a postoperative patient with abdominal discomfort and no bowel sounds is to encourage frequent ambulation to help stimulate bowel motility.

Step-by-step explanation:

A postoperative patient experiencing abdominal discomfort with the absence of bowel sounds may be dealing with a condition known as postoperative ileus, which is a temporary impairment of bowel motility. Given the symptoms described, the most effective nursing action to help manage this discomfort would likely be to encourage frequent ambulation. Ambulation can help stimulate bowel motility and aid in the resumption of normal bowel functions. While administering PRN pain meds, ensuring adequate fluids by mouth, and providing sufficient fiber in the diet are important, they may not be as immediately effective in resolving the absence of bowel sounds or aiding bowel recovery post-surgery.

Answer 2

The most effective nursing action to manage abdominal discomfort in a postoperative patient with the absence of bowel sounds is encouraging frequent ambulation.

Step-by-step explanation:

The most effective nursing action to help manage abdominal discomfort in a postoperative patient with absence of bowel sounds is encouraging frequent ambulation.

Ambulation helps stimulate the digestive system, which can promote bowel movement and relieve discomfort. Additionally, it helps prevent complications such as constipation and respiratory complications.

Administering PRN pain medications may help with pain relief, but it may not directly address the underlying issue of absent bowel sounds. Furthermore, ensuring adequate fluids by mouth and providing sufficient fiber in the diet can play a role in managing overall gastrointestinal health, but they may not be the most effective immediate nursing action for relieving discomfort.