Which fnding supports impaired elimination in this client? Select all that apply.

Bloody diarrhea

Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) result mm/h

Sodium result mEq/L

Smokes occasional cigarettes

Potassium result . mEq/L

Bowel wall thickening per abdominal xray

Drinks one to two alcoholic beverages on weekends

Abdominal pain increased today

ANSWER

Impaired elimination is indicated by several findings. These findings encompass both clinical manifestations and laboratory results that collectively contribute to the assessment of the client’s elimination status. The following points highlight the findings that support impaired elimination in the client:

Bloody Diarrhea

The presence of bloody diarrhea suggests gastrointestinal inflammation, possibly resulting from conditions such as infectious diarrhea, inflammatory bowel disease, or other gastrointestinal disorders. Bloody diarrhea can be indicative of impaired elimination due to the altered functioning of the gastrointestinal tract.

Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR) Result

The ESR result, typically measured in millimeters per hour (mm/h), is a marker of inflammation in the body. Elevated ESR levels often accompany conditions associated with inflammation or infection. In this context, an increased ESR result suggests ongoing inflammation that can contribute to impaired elimination.

Sodium and Potassium Results

Abnormal levels of sodium and potassium electrolytes in the blood may indicate disturbances in fluid and electrolyte balance, which can impact bowel function. Electrolyte imbalances can lead to changes in intestinal motility, potentially causing impaired elimination patterns.

Bowel Wall Thickening per Abdominal X-ray

The presence of bowel wall thickening observed on abdominal X-ray can be indicative of underlying gastrointestinal pathology, such as inflammation, infection, or structural abnormalities. Bowel wall thickening can impair normal peristaltic movements and contribute to changes in elimination patterns.

Abdominal Pain Increased Today

An increase in abdominal pain indicates a change in the client’s clinical status and may suggest a worsening of an underlying gastrointestinal condition. Abdominal pain is often associated with impaired elimination, as it can be related to factors such as inflammation, infection, or altered bowel motility.

In contrast, factors such as occasional cigarette smoking, alcohol consumption on weekends, and drinking one to two alcoholic beverages are not direct indicators of impaired elimination. These lifestyle habits may have varying effects on overall health but do not directly correlate with the client’s elimination status.

To summarize, the presence of bloody diarrhea, elevated ESR result, abnormal sodium and potassium levels, bowel wall thickening on abdominal X-ray, and increased abdominal pain collectively provide evidence of impaired elimination in this client. These findings reflect potential disruptions in the gastrointestinal system’s function, leading to alterations in bowel patterns and overall elimination processes.