The nurse suspects that a client is experiencing compromised gastroint

The nurse suspects that a client is experiencing compromised gastrointestinal function. What assessment data did the nurse use to make this clinical decision?

1. Bowel sounds active in all four quadrants
2. Clay-colored stool
3. Increased appetite
4. Semisolid and moist stool

ANSWER

Correct Answer: 2
Rationale 1: Bowel sounds active in all four quadrants is indicative of normal bowel activity.
Rationale 2: Clay-colored stools would be an indication of a problem in the GI tract. Clay color is a sign of the absence of bile pigment (bile obstruction).
Rationale 3: If the GI tract were compromised, the client would have a decrease in appetite, not an increase.
Rationale 4: A semisolid and moist stool indicates normal bowel function.