NCLEX Question of the Day

April 10, 2026

Physiological Integrity QID 348

When assessing a patient with a suspected bowel obstruction, which finding would the nurse anticipate?

A:
Soft, nontender abdomen
B:
Hyperactive bowel sounds in all quadrants
C:
High-pitched tinkling bowel sounds
D:
Pain relieved by defecation

Explanation

High-pitched tinkling bowel sounds are indicative of bowel obstruction as they reflect the intestine's attempt to move contents through an area of blockage. Hyperactive bowel sounds in all quadrants may be observed in conditions such as gastroenteritis. Pain relieved by defecation could suggest irritable bowel syndrome, and a soft, nontender abdomen is typically a normal finding.

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