ATI Bowel Elimination Questions and Answers | Latest Version | 2025/2026 | Correct & Verified

ATI Bowel Elimination Questions and Answers | Latest Version | 2025/2026 | Correct & Verified What is the medical term for difficulty passing stool? Constipation Which position is recommended to promote effective bowel elimination during defecation? Sitting or squatting position with knees higher than hips What is the normal frequency range for bowel movements in healthy adults? From three times a day to three times a week What type of stool consistency indicates possible diarrhea? Loose, watery stool Name a common complication of chronic constipation. Hemorrhoids 2 What color stool might indicate gastrointestinal bleeding? Black or tarry stool Which dietary component is essential to promote regular bowel movements? Dietary fiber What is the effect of opioids on bowel elimination? They often cause constipation by slowing intestinal motility What should a nurse assess first in a patient with absence of bowel sounds? Possible bowel obstruction or ileus Name one effective nonpharmacological intervention to relieve constipation. Increasing fluid intake What does the term “fecal impaction” mean? A hard mass of stool lodged in the rectum that cannot be expelled 3 What does a nurse observe to assess a patient’s bowel elimination pattern? Frequency, consistency, color, and amount of stool Which condition requires immediate medical evaluation if accompanied by abdominal distention and no bowel movement? Bowel obstruction What is the normal pH range of stool? Slightly acidic to neutral, around 6.0 to 7.0 How does physical activity affect bowel elimination? It stimulates peristalsis and promotes regular bowel movements Name one potential cause of diarrhea in hospitalized patients. Clostridioides difficile infection (C. diff) What is the primary purpose of performing digital rectal stimulation? To stimulate bowel movement in patients with neurogenic bowel 4 What should be documented after a patient’s bowel movement? Time, amount, consistency, color, and