The nurse is performing a head-to-toe assessment on a client taking aluminum hydroxide (AlternaGel). Why must the nurse closely assess for bowel changes?

Question

1. Hyperactive bowel sounds indicate imminent vomiting; suction should be made available.
2. Hypoactive bowel sounds indicate duodenal ulcerations.
3. Hematochezia is a sign that the medication is working.
4. A distended abdomen could indicate constipation, a side effect of this medication.

Answer 1

Correct Answer: 4
Rationale 1: Hyperactive bowel sounds indicate increased gastric motility and a possible obstruction if bowel sounds are absent below the level of obstruction.
Rationale 2: Hypoactive bowel sounds do not indicate duodenal ulcers.
Rationale 3: Hematochezia, which is bright red blood per rectum, is not a sign that aluminum hydroxide is working. This symptom should be reported to the health care provider immediately.
Rationale 4: During treatment with aluminum hydroxide, the nurse must assess for bowel changes. Magnesium-based products can cause diarrhea, and those with calcium and aluminum can cause constipation.
Global Rationale: During treatment with aluminum hydroxide, the nurse must assess for bowel changes. Magnesium-based products can cause diarrhea, and those with calcium and aluminum can cause constipation.
Vomiting is not the concern. Hematochezia, which is bright red blood per rectum, is not a sign that aluminum hydroxide is working. This symptom should be reported to the health care provider immediately. Hypoactive bowel sounds do not indicate duodenal ulcers.