QUESTION: "The client asks the nurse, "How can I tell whether my baby is spitting up or vomiting?" The nurse explains that in contrast to regurgitated material, vomited material is characterized by which of the following?"
CHOICES
( X ) a.) One-time occurrence during feeding.
( O ) b.) A curdled appearance.
( X ) c.) A brownish color.
( X ) d.) Usually prior to a feeding.
RATIONALE: Vomited material has been digested and looks like curdled milk with a sour odor. Vomiting usually occurs between feedings and empties the stomach of its contents. In contrast, regurgitation is undigested material; it does not have a sour odor, and occurs during or immediately after feeding. Vomiting is unrelated to a feeding. Also, vomiting continues until the stomach is empty, while regurgitation is usually only about 1 to 2 teaspoons. Vomited material is typically white and curdled in appearance. A brownish color suggests old blood. Vomiting usually occurs between feedings whereas regurgitation occurs during or immediately after feeding. Vomiting also tends to be forceful or projectile. NURSING PROCESS STEP: Implementation CLIENT NEEDS CATEGORY: Health promotion and maintenance CLIENT NEEDS SUBCATEGORY: None
