Question

Which HCP's order should the nurse question in a client diagnosed with an expanding AAA who is scheduled for surgery in the morning?

a. Type and crossmatch for 2 units of blood.
b. Tap water enema until clear fecal return.
c. Bedrest with bathroom privileges.
d. Keep NPO after midnight.

Answer 1

The nurse should question the order for a tap water enema due to the potential risk of increasing intra-abdominal pressure and causing rupture in a patient with an expanding AAA scheduled for surgery.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse should question the order for a tap water enema until clear fecal return in a client diagnosed with an expanding abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) who is scheduled for surgery in the morning. The rationale for this is that administering an enema to a patient with an expanding AAA could potentially increase intra-abdominal pressure, which may exacerbate the aneurysm and lead to rupture, a life-threatening complication. The other orders listed are typical preoperative measures:

• Type and crossmatch for 2 units of blood which is necessary to prepare for possible blood transfusions during or after surgery.
• Bedrest with bathroom privileges to minimize physical exertion that could increase the risk of aneurysm expansion or rupture.
• Keep NPO (nothing by mouth) after midnight to reduce the risk of aspiration during anesthesia.