Two Days Following an Exploratory Laparotomy with a Resection of a Short

question 42

Multiple Choice

Two days following an exploratory laparotomy with a resection of a short segment of small bowel, the patient complains of gas pains and abdominal distention. Which nursing action is most appropriate to take at this time?

• A) Assisting the patient to ambulate
• B) Administering the ordered IV morphine sulfate
• C) Giving a return-flow enema
• D) Inserting the ordered promethazine (Phenergan) suppository

---

Definitions:

Within-subject

A research design where the same participants are exposed to all conditions or treatments, allowing direct comparison of different conditions on the same individual.

Replication

The process of repeating a research study or experiment to verify its findings or to ensure its accuracy.

Experimental Procedure

A specific set of steps in scientific research designed to test a hypothesis under controlled conditions.

Debriefing

A step at the end of an experiment in which the researcher explains the study’s purpose and design to each participant and undoes any manipulations to participants’ beliefs or state.