Gastrointestinal Alternate Format Question

A nurse is assigned to care for a child who is scheduled for an appendectomy. Select the orders that the nurse anticipates will be prescribed.

1. Initiate and IV line.
2. Maintain an NPO status.
3. Administer a Fleet enema.
4. Administer preoperative medications.
5. Administer intravenous antibiotics.
6. Place a heating pad on the abdomen to decrease pain.

Answer: 1,2,4,5


Rationale: In the preoperative period, enemas or laxatives should not be administered. Additionally, heat is not applied to the abdomen. Any of these interventions can cause rupture of the appendix and resultant peritonitis.