Question

A client had a resection of the small bowel due to obstruction. 2 days post-op, the client complains of abdominal distention. The nurse plans care for the client based on the knowledge that post-op pain occurs as a result of:

a) Infection
b) Peristalsis returning
c) Adhesions
d) Poor wound healing

Answer 1

The client's post-op pain is due to peristalsis returning in the intestines after the surgery.

Step-by-step explanation:

The post-op pain experienced by the client is likely due to peristalsis returning in the intestines after the surgery.

Peristalsis is the wave-like contractions of the muscles in the digestive tract that helps move food through the system. After a resection of the small bowel, it takes some time for peristalsis to return to normal.

As peristalsis resumes, the intestines may become distended, causing discomfort and abdominal pain.