A female patient is scheduled for an ultrasound to examine the uterus. How should the nurse instruct the patient to prepare for the test?
1. Take a laxative the night before the test to clear the colon of feces.
2. Restrict fluids prior to the day of the test.
3. Take no food or fluids after midnight the day before the test.
4. Increase fluid intake and do not void until after the test.
Correct Answer: 4
For an abdominal ultrasound, the patient should be instructed to increase the intake of fluids and not to void until the test is completed. This ensures a full bladder to lift the pelvic organs higher in the abdomen and improve visualization. Restricting food intake and clearing the colon of feces are not necessary, as the colon does not obstruct the view of the uterus.
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