Question

The nurse is preparing a patient for colon surgery. The nurse administers enemas to the patient until the enema return solution contains no solid fecal material. What is the rationale for this?

A. Solid fecal material may cause obstruction during surgery.
B. Clear enema returns ensure complete bowel evacuation.
C. Solid fecal material prevents accurate surgical visualization.
D. Enemas are given for patient comfort, not surgical preparation.

Answer 1

The purpose of enemas before colon surgery is to ensure complete bowel evacuation. This allows for accurate surgical visualization and reduces the risk of complications such as infection.

Step-by-step explanation:

The rationale for administering enemas until the enema return solution contains no solid fecal material before colon surgery is B. Clear enema returns ensure complete bowel evacuation. This is important because remaining fecal material can interfere with the surgical procedure by preventing accurate surgical visualization and potentially causing complications such as infection. The elimination process involves the absorption of water in the colon and the storage of fecal matter in the rectum until expulsion. During colon surgery, a clear field is necessary for the surgeons to work effectively.