Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 62%
Simulated
When assessing a client on the first postoperative day following abdominal surgery, the nurse does not hear any bowel sounds. In response to this finding, which action should the nurse implement?
Correct answer
Documenting the assessment finding is the most appropriate initial action. This ensures that the lack of bowel sounds is recorded in the client's medical record, which is crucial for ongoing monitoring and communication with the healthcare team.