Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 72%
Simulated
When planning a bowel retraining program for a client with a spinal cord injury, which nursing intervention is most appropriate?
Correct answer
B
Rationale
Encouraging the client to consume a high-fiber diet is the most appropriate nursing intervention for a bowel retraining program. A high-fiber diet is crucial for clients with spinal cord injuries as it adds bulk to the stool, stimulates peristalsis, and promotes regular, predictable bowel movements. This fundamental dietary modification helps prevent constipation and supports the establishment of a consistent bowel routine, reducing reliance on more invasive interventions.
A: Administering a stool softener twice per week. This frequency is generally insufficient for a consistent bowel retraining program, which often requires daily or every-other-day support to maintain stool consistency and promote regularity.
C: Having the client drink two glasses of water every morning. While hydration is essential, two glasses of water only in the morning is inadequate for overall daily fluid needs and will not alone establish a successful bowel retraining program.
D: Teaching the client to self-administer daily enemas. Daily enema use is generally discouraged for long-term bowel retraining due to the risk of dependency, electrolyte imbalances, and irritation to the bowel mucosa.
A: Administering a stool softener twice per week. This frequency is generally insufficient for a consistent bowel retraining program, which often requires daily or every-other-day support to maintain stool consistency and promote regularity.
C: Having the client drink two glasses of water every morning. While hydration is essential, two glasses of water only in the morning is inadequate for overall daily fluid needs and will not alone establish a successful bowel retraining program.
D: Teaching the client to self-administer daily enemas. Daily enema use is generally discouraged for long-term bowel retraining due to the risk of dependency, electrolyte imbalances, and irritation to the bowel mucosa.