Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 92%
Simulated
A nurse is collecting data from a client who is 12 hr postoperative following a colectomy with colostomy placement. Which of the following findings should the nurse report to the provider?
Correct answer
A
Rationale
The correct answer is A: Purplish colored stoma. This finding could indicate compromised blood flow to the stoma, which is a serious concern postoperatively. The nurse should report this to the provider immediately for further evaluation and intervention. Choice B is incorrect as it may not be abnormal within the immediate postoperative period. Choice C, edematous stoma, is common initially due to surgical trauma and should resolve over time. Choice D, slight bleeding, can be expected postoperatively but should be monitored for excessive bleeding.