2024 PN NCLEX Questions Nursing Practice Question
While reviewing a client's health care record, a nurse notes documentation of the presence of borborygmus on abdominal assessment. Which finding does the nurse expect to note when auscultating the client's bowel sounds?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Borborygmus refers to the audible rumbling or gurgling sounds produced by the movement of gas and fluids in the intestines, often associated with increased bowel activity. When auscultating a client with borborygmus, hyperactive bowel sounds are expected, indicating heightened intestinal activity.
Option A, hypoactive bowel sounds, would suggest reduced intestinal activity, which contradicts the presence of borborygmus. Option B, low-pitched bowel sounds, does not specifically indicate heightened activity and is not characteristic of borborygmus. Option D, an absence of bowel sounds, implies a lack of intestinal movement, which is inconsistent with the presence of borborygmus.