Question

The nurse is reviewing the patient's gastrointestinal history. Which review of system question establishes a pattern for bowel elimination? "Do you have any physical problerns that affect your bowel functioning?" "How often do you have a bowel movement? "Do you require a medication to have a bowel movement?" "When was your last bowel moverment?

Answer 1

The question that establishes a pattern for bowel elimination is 'How often do you have a bowel movement?' since it directly inquires about the regularity and frequency of bowel movements.

Step-by-step explanation:

The review of system question that establishes a pattern for bowel elimination is "How often do you have a bowel movement?" This question is critical for understanding the regularity and frequency of a patient's bowel movements, which is essential for diagnosing issues related to the gastrointestinal tract, such as constipation or diarrhea. These conditions are influenced by factors like water reabsorption in the colon and can be indicative of various health concerns.

Questions relating to the need for medication to facilitate bowel movements or the timing of the last bowel movement can also provide valuable information, but the frequency question directly establishes the elimination pattern. It's important for health professionals to review gastrointestinal history comprehensively, as issues like inflammatory bowel disease, emesis, and the effect of the autonomic nervous system on digestion can significantly impact a patient's overall health.