Chapter 37: Bowel Elimination Quiz

Bowel Elimination Overview

• Hypertonic enemas are classified as cleansing enemas, which help relieve constipation and enhance visualization during procedures like colonoscopy.
• Common solutions for cleansing enemas include tap water, normal saline, soap solution, and hypertonic solution.
• Carminative enemas relieve gaseous distention, while return-flow enemas expel flatus.

Abdominal Assessment

• Documentation for inaudible bowel sounds should state, "All four abdominal quadrants auscultated. Inaudible bowel sounds."
• A thorough assessment is crucial, highlighting any abnormalities in bowel sounds.

Enema Administration

• Cottonseed oil in enemas lubricates and softens the stool for easier expulsion during a retention enema.
• Tap water and normal saline solutions moisten stool and distend the rectum, while soap and water solutions irritate local tissues.

Developmental Considerations

• Weakened pelvic muscles in older adults contribute to constipation, along with reduced activity levels.
• Constipation is a prevalent issue among the elderly demographic.

Antibiotic Effects

• Diarrhea is a common side effect of antibiotic use, highlighting the importance of monitoring gut health.

Nutrient Absorption

• After bowel resection, clients may face absorption issues with certain vitamins and iron, primarily absorbed in the ileum.
• Fluid absorption mainly occurs in the large intestine, making its integrity crucial for hydration.

Electrolyte Absorption

• Electrolytes are predominantly absorbed in the duodenum and jejunum, essential for maintaining body homeostasis.

Intestinal Functions

• The large intestine's primary functions include water absorption and fecal matter formation, preparing waste for export from the body.

Fecal Occult Blood Test (FOBT)

• FOBT detects heme, an iron compound in blood within stool, and is critical for assessing rectal bleeding.

Enema Tubing Insertion

• When administering a large-volume enema, tubing should be inserted 3 inches (7.5 cm) past the sphincters to prevent mucosal damage.
• A gentle and slow approach is essential when inserting a rectal tube during enema administration.

Client Positioning for Enema

• Clients receiving hypertonic enemas should be placed in the Sims position, optimizing gravity for solution distribution.

Colonoscopy Screening Recommendations

• Individuals at 47 years with a family history of polyps should initiate discussions about colonoscopy screenings with healthcare providers.
• Regular colonoscopy screenings typically begin at age 50, with follow-ups every 10 years thereafter.