A client asks the nurse why expelled flatus is foul-smelling. What sho

A client asks the nurse why expelled flatus is foul-smelling. What should the nurse respond?

1. The actions of microorganisms within the gastrointestinal tract are responsible for the odor.
2. The client’s emotions are causing the gas formation.
3. The sensory nerves in the rectum are being stimulated.
4. The client has swallowed too much air while eating.

ANSWER

Correct Answer: 1
Rationale 1: The actions of the microorganisms are responsible for the odor produced and also the color of the feces.
Rationale 2: Extreme stimulation of the client’s emotions would result in large amounts of mucus being secreted.
Rationale 3: The sensory nerves, when stimulated, give one the desire to defecate, not form gas.
Rationale 4: Eating too fast or talking while eating does cause the formation of gas but does not contribute to the odor.