Final answer:
The primary nursing diagnosis for a client with a bowel obstruction is Acute pain, although Deficient fluid volume is also significant due to risks of dehydration and related complications like kidney failure.
Step-by-step explanation:
The primary nursing diagnosis for a client with a bowel obstruction is likely to be Acute pain due to the distension of the intestines and discomfort associated with the inability to pass contents. However, Deficient fluid volume is also a critical diagnosis to consider because bowel obstructions can lead to prolonged vomiting and diarrhea, causing excessive loss of digestive fluid. This can result in dehydration, a common complication of bowel obstructions, which may lead to further issues such as kidney failure if not managed promptly and effectively. Both of these diagnoses are integral parts of managing a patient with a bowel obstruction, but Acute pain is often the most immediate concern for the patient.