Question

The nurse is providing discharge teaching to a client about managing diverticulitis. Which of the following statements should the nurse include in the teaching?

A) "Use bisacodyl suppositories to stimulate a bowel movement"
B) "Avoid lifting objects greater than 50 pounds"
C) "Consume a clear liquid diet until symptoms resolve"
D) "Take a probiotic 15 minutes after taking a prescribed antibiotic to prevent antibiotic-related diarrhea"

Answer 1

To manage diverticulitis, consuming a clear liquid diet until symptoms resolve is a key component of the discharge teaching a nurse should provide to a client.

Step-by-step explanation:

When providing discharge teaching to a client about managing diverticulitis, the nurse should include that they should "Consume a clear liquid diet until symptoms resolve". This approach helps to ensure that the intestine is not further irritated and can recover from the inflammation. Oral antibiotics may also be prescribed, and rest will allow the colon to heal. Suppositories like bisacodyl should be avoided as they may irritate the digestive system, and lifting heavy objects should be limited but is not directly related to managing diverticulitis. As for probiotics, they are often recommended after antibiotic use to help restore normal flora, but this must be timed appropriately in relation to antibiotic intake.