Elimination

Question 1

Define:

elimination

Answer 1

The process of removing waste from the body.

Includes both urinary and bowel elimination.

Question 2

Which organ is responsible for filtering waste from the blood to form urine?

Answer 2

The kidneys

The kidneys regulate fluid balance and remove toxins.

Question 3

How can a nurse assistant promote normal elimination?

Answer 3

Encourage:

1. Fluids
2. Fiber-rich foods
3. Regular exercise
4. Privacy

Maintaining a routine helps prevent constipation and incontinence.

Privacy helps maintain dignity and comfort.

Question 4

What should be reported regarding elimination?

Answer 4

1. Frequency
2. Color
3. Consistency
4. Unusual changes

Abnormal elimination may indicate infection or illness.

Question 5

List THREE signs of normal urine.

Answer 5

1. Clear
2. Pale yellow
3. Slight odor

Dark urine may indicate dehydration.

Question 6

Fill in the blanks:

Normal bowel movements should be _____ in color and _____ in consistency.

Answer 6

brown; soft

Hard stools may indicate constipation, while watery stools may indicate diarrhea.

Question 7

Define:

incontinence

Answer 7

The inability to control urination or bowel movements.

Can be caused by medical conditions, aging, or nerve damage.

Question 8

What are TWO common causes of urinary incontinence?

Answer 8

1. Weak pelvic muscles.
2. Nerve damage.

Certain medications and medical conditions may also contribute.

Question 9

How can a caregiver assist a patient with incontinence?

Answer 9

By providing:

1. Timely toileting
2. Perineal care
3. Protective garments

Encouraging scheduled toileting can help reduce accidents.

Question 10

Which type of incontinence occurs when a person leaks urine due to sudden pressure (e.g., coughing)?

Answer 10

Stress incontinence.

Common in older adults and postpartum women.

Question 11

What is a bladder training program?

Answer 11

A scheduled toileting program to regain control over urination.

Helps improve continence and reduce accidents.

Question 12

List TWO signs of a urinary tract infection (UTI).

Answer 12

1. Burning sensation during urination.
2. Cloudy urine.

UTIs can cause fever and confusion, especially in older adults.

Question 13

True or False:

A person with a urinary tract infection (UTI) should drink plenty of fluids.

Answer 13

True

Increased fluid intake helps flush bacteria from the urinary system.

Question 14

List TWO methods of assisting with urination.

Answer 14

1. Portable commode
2. Catheter

Methods depend on the patient’s mobility and medical needs.

Question 15

Define:

a urinary catheter

Answer 15

A tube inserted into the bladder to drain urine.

Used when a person cannot urinate on their own.

Question 16

What is the difference between an indwelling catheter and an intermittent catheter?

Answer 16

• Indwelling catheter: It remains in place.
• Intermittent catheter: Used temporarily and then removed.

Indwelling catheters increase the risk of infection.

Question 17

How should an indwelling catheter be secured?

Answer 17

Attached to the thigh or bed frame below bladder level.

Prevents dislodging and backflow of urine.

Question 18

How should a catheter drainage bag be positioned?

Answer 18

Below the level of the bladder.

Prevents urine backflow, reducing the risk of infection.

Question 19

What is a condom catheter?

Answer 19

A catheter that fits over the penis and drains urine into a collection bag.

Used for male patients with urinary incontinence.

Question 20

How often should catheter care be performed?

Answer 20

At least once daily and as needed.

Proper hygiene reduces the risk of infection.

Question 21

What should be reported immediately when caring for a patient with a catheter?

Answer 21

1. No urine output.
2. Blood in urine.
3. Signs of infection.

These may indicate serious complications.

Question 22

How can bedpans be warmed before use?

Answer 22

Run under warm water.

Cold bedpans can cause discomfort and muscle contraction.

Question 23

Fill in the blank:

A patient should not sit on a bedpan for more than _____ minutes.

Answer 23

10-15

Prolonged use can cause discomfort and pressure sores.

Question 24

True or False:

A fracture pan is deeper than a regular bedpan.

Answer 24

False

A fracture pan is smaller and designed for patients with mobility issues.

Question 25

# Define: a portable commode

Answer 25

A **movable toilet** used by patients who cannot reach the bathroom. ## Footnote Provides convenience while promoting independence.

Question 26

What is the purpose of a **commode hat**?

Answer 26

To collect urine or stool samples. ## Footnote Used for monitoring and diagnostic purposes.

Question 27

List THREE ways of **preventing constipation**.

Answer 27

1. Drinking fluids. 1. Eating fiber-rich foods. 1. Exercising. ## Footnote Maintaining regular bowel movements is essential for health.

Question 28

# Fill in the blank: \_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_ is a severe form of constipation where stool becomes **hardened and impacted in the rectum**.

Answer 28

Fecal impaction ## Footnote May require manual removal if not treated early. In fecal impaction, hardened stool can block the passage, causing only small amounts of watery stool to leak around the blockage.

Question 29

# True or False: A patient with diarrhea should **eat fiber-rich foods**.

Answer 29

False ## Footnote Fiber can worsen diarrhea; a bland diet is recommended.

Question 30

# Define: an ostomy

Answer 30

A **surgically created opening** for waste elimination. ## Footnote Used when part of the bowel or bladder is removed.

Question 31

How should an **ostomy appliance** be cared for?

Answer 31

1. Clean around the stoma. 1. Replace when needed. 1. Ensure a secure fit. ## Footnote Proper care prevents leaks and skin irritation.

Question 32

What is an **enema**?

Answer 32

A fluid introduced into the rectum to **stimulate bowel movements**. ## Footnote Used to relieve constipation or cleanse the bowel before procedures.

Question 33

Which type of enema is commonly used **before medical procedures**?

Answer 33

A **cleansing** enema. ## Footnote Helps clear the bowel of waste.

Question 34

How **often** should an ostomy bag be **emptied**?

Answer 34

When it is **one-third to one-half** full. ## Footnote Overfilling can cause leaks and discomfort.

Question 35

How should **urine output** be measured?

Answer 35

Using a **graduated** container. ## Footnote Accurate measurement helps monitor fluid balance.

Question 36

What **should be avoided** when providing perineal care?

Answer 36

* Harsh soaps. * Excessive rubbing. ## Footnote These can cause irritation and skin breakdown.

Question 37

List THREE signs of **abnormal stool**.

Answer 37

1. Blood 1. Mucus 1. Watery consistency ## Footnote Changes in stool may indicate digestive disorders.

Question 38

# Fill in the blank: Frequent passage of **loose stools** is called \_\_\_\_\_\_\_.

Answer 38

diarrhea ## Footnote It can lead to dehydration if untreated.

Question 39

# Define: bowel training

Answer 39

A schedule-based program to **regulate bowel movements**. ## Footnote Helps patients regain control over defecation.

Question 40

How can caregivers **ensure privacy** during elimination?

Answer 40

1. Close doors. 1. Use privacy curtains. 1. Maintain a professional attitude. ## Footnote Privacy enhances dignity and comfort.

Question 41

Why should **gloves always be worn** during elimination assistance?

Answer 41

To prevent **infection transmission**. ## Footnote Standard precautions ensure hygiene and safety.

Question 42

What is a major complication of **prolonged diarrhea**?

Answer 42

Dehydration ## Footnote Can lead to electrolyte imbalances and weakness.

Question 43

How should **stool specimens** be collected?

Answer 43

Using a **sterile container** and avoiding urine contamination. ## Footnote Proper collection ensures accurate testing.

Question 44

How can **constipation** affect overall health?

Answer 44

**It can cause**: 1. Pain 1. Bloating 1. Hemorrhoids ## Footnote Severe cases may require medical intervention.

Question 45

How does **immobility** affect elimination?

Answer 45

**Slows digestion** and can lead to constipation. ## Footnote Movement stimulates bowel function.