A client with an upper gastrointestinal disorder is experiencing seepi

A client with an upper gastrointestinal disorder is experiencing seeping of liquid stool, anorexia, abdominal distention, nausea, and vomiting. The nurse suspects the client is experiencing

1. constipation.
2. diarrhea.
3. trapped flatus.
4. fecal impaction.

ANSWER

Correct Answer: 4
Rationale 1: Liquid stool is not an indication of constipation.
Rationale 2: The liquid stool associated with abdominal distention, anorexia, nausea, and vomiting is not an indication of diarrhea.
Rationale 3: Trapped flatus does not cause the seeping of liquid stool.
Rationale 4: A client who has a fecal impaction will experience the passage of liquid fecal seepage and no normal stool. The liquid portion of the feces seeps out around the impacted mass. Symptoms include anorexia, abdominal distention, nausea, and vomiting.