A nurse is teaching a client about preparation for barium enema. What client statement indicates the client requires further reinforcement of the teaching?
A.
“l will eat my breakfast prior to coming in for the study.”
B.
“l may need to have laxatives to expel the barium.”
C.
“l will receive the barium prior to the study by rectum.”
D.
‘l will need to lie down during the study while retaining the barium for x-rays.”
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is:
A. “I will eat my breakfast prior to coming in for the study.”
Explanation:
A barium enema is a radiologic procedure used to visualize the colon and rectum using a contrast medium called barium sulfate. Proper preparation is essential to ensure that the bowel is clean and free of any residual material that could obscure the images.
Preparation for a Barium Enema:
- Dietary Restrictions: Prior to the barium enema, clients are typically instructed to follow a clear liquid diet for 24 to 48 hours. This helps to minimize the contents of the bowel and allows for clearer imaging. Solid foods, including breakfast, should be avoided on the day of the test to ensure that the bowel is adequately prepared. Therefore, the statement “I will eat my breakfast prior to coming in for the study” indicates a lack of understanding regarding the dietary restrictions required before the procedure. Clients should refrain from eating solid foods on the day of the procedure and follow the clear liquid diet as instructed.
- Laxatives: The use of laxatives is often required before the procedure to ensure that the bowel is thoroughly emptied. This helps in obtaining clear and accurate images during the enema. The statement “I may need to have laxatives to expel the barium” reflects an understanding of this preparation step.
- Administration of Barium: During the barium enema, barium sulfate is introduced into the rectum through a tube. The statement “I will receive the barium prior to the study by rectum” is accurate as the barium is indeed administered rectally.
- Procedure Positioning: The client will be required to lie on the examination table while the barium is administered and the x-rays are taken. The statement “I will need to lie down during the study while retaining the barium for x-rays” correctly describes the positioning and retention requirements during the procedure.
In summary, the client’s statement about eating breakfast prior to the study reveals a misunderstanding of the preparatory requirements for a barium enema. Proper teaching should reinforce the importance of adhering to the dietary restrictions and bowel preparation to ensure the success of the procedure.