OIIQ-RN MARCH 2025 EXAM CHEAT SHEET SURGERY

Ace Your OIIQ Exam with Confidence!

Are you ready to take the next step in your nursing career? Join our comprehensive RN101 Ordre des infirmières et infirmiers du Québec (OIIQ) Exam Review Course! Starting from February 10 to March 6, our curriculum covers all key themes for the March 2025 OIIQ exam, including:

Surgery
Medicine
Gerontology
Mental Health and Psychiatry
Maternal and Child Health

With 12 live online classes every Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday from 9 AM to 12 PM, our expert instructor, Jim, is here to guide you. An IEN graduate and top of his class from John Abbott College in 2012, Jim has 12 years of teaching experience and an extensive background in the OIIQ exam styles, including OSCE, short answers, and multiple-choice questions.

About the Teacher:

After working at Saint Anne Veterans Hospital, Jim moved to the beautiful countryside of Shefford, Quebec, to focus solely on helping students achieve their goals and to spend more time with his loved ones.

✅ Flexible Learning: Can’t make it to a class? No problem! All sessions are recorded, so you can revisit the material whenever you need.

✅ Proven Success: Hear from our successful students:

“Hi Jim! I hope you are doing well! I just found out that I passed my OIIQ exam with an 84%! It wouldn’t have been possible without you! I am so thankful for all your help this summer!!” – Angela

“Hi Jim, Hope all is well. Just wanted to let you know that I passed the OIIQ exam (with a 76%)! Thank you again for all of your help.” – Jamie

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Register today at www.rn101questionbank.com or contact us via email at rn101.net@yahoo.com or call/text 514-632-4228.

Don’t leave your future to chance—enroll now and secure your success for the RN101 OIIQ exam!

Introducing the OIIQ March 2025 Exam Cheat Sheet!

I am excited to share with you my specially created Cheat Sheet designed to help you prepare for the upcoming March 2025 OIIQ exam. This resource is tailored based on the exam themes, focusing on the most common topics and questions you may encounter.

Important Notes about the Cheat Sheet:

Practice Tool Only: Please remember that this cheat sheet is not a collection of official exam questions. Instead, it serves as a practice guide to help you familiarize yourself with potential answers and topics relevant to the exam theme.
Format: The content is not structured as multiple-choice questions and is not designed to assess your critical thinking skills.
Purpose: The primary goal of the cheat sheet is to enhance your understanding of the material and prepare you for the types of questions you may face in the exam.

Use this cheat sheet as a valuable study aid to boost your confidence and readiness for the OIIQ exam!

NOTE: "The Cheat Sheet will be continuously updated, so feel free to visit anytime!"

Responding to Evisceration	Cover the protruding organs with sterile saline-soaked gauze. Evisceration is a medical emergency. The primary concern is to protect the exposed organs by keeping them moist with sterile saline-soaked gauze and preventing further injury.
Preventing Dehiscence or Evisceration	Teach the patient to splint the incision while coughing. Splinting the incision (e.g., holding a pillow against the wound) reduces the stress and pressure on the surgical site during activities like coughing or sneezing, which helps prevent dehiscence.
High-Risk Patients for Dehiscence or Evisceration	Obese, Malnourished or Underweight, Diabetic, Immunocompromised, Older adults, Smokers, Abdominal surgeries, Chronic conditions (e.g., COPD, CKD)
Identifying Dumping Syndrome. A patient is recovering from a partial gastrectomy. Thirty minutes after eating, he report nausea, abdominal cramping, dizziness, and sweating. The heart rate is elevated.	Dumping syndrome occurs when food moves too quickly from the stomach into the small intestine, often following gastric surgery. Symptoms typically appear 15–30 minutes after eating and include nausea, abdominal cramping, dizziness, sweating, and tachycardia.
Preventing Dumping Syndrome	Patients with dumping syndrome should eat small, frequent meals that are high in protein and low in simple carbohydrates to slow gastric emptying. Drinking fluids with meals can worsen symptoms by increasing the speed of gastric emptying. Large meals exacerbate symptoms, and high-sugar foods can trigger symptoms by causing a rapid shift of fluid into the intestines.
Recognizing Late Dumping Syndrome	Late dumping syndrome occurs 1–3 hours after eating due to a rapid rise in blood glucose, which triggers an excessive insulin response. This leads to hypoglycemia, causing symptoms such as dizziness, sweating, and confusion. Early dumping syndrome (fluid shifts) typically occurs 15–30 minutes after eating.
Dietary Recommendations for Dumping Syndrome	Lying down after meals slows gastric emptying, which can help prevent the rapid dumping of stomach contents into the small intestine. High-fat foods are generally well-tolerated and not restricted in dumping syndrome. Drinking water before meals increases the risk of symptoms by speeding up gastric emptying. Complex carbohydrates can still cause symptoms if consumed in excess.
Pharmacological Management for Dumping Syndrome	Octreotide, a somatostatin analog, slows gastric emptying and inhibits the release of insulin, effectively reducing symptoms of both early and late dumping syndrome.
Purpose of an Abdominal Binder	"The binder supports the incision and prevents strain on your abdominal muscles." An abdominal binder provides support to the abdominal muscles and reduces strain on the surgical site during movement, coughing, or deep breathing. It also helps reduce the risk of dehiscence.
Contraindications for Abdominal Binders	A patient with severe abdominal distention or bowel obstruction. Abdominal binders are contraindicated in patients with severe abdominal distention or bowel obstruction, as they can worsen pressure on the abdomen and cause complications. Drainage from a surgical site or the presence of surgical drains are not absolute contraindications, as the binder can be adjusted to accommodate these situations.
Applying an Abdominal Binder	Ensure the binder is applied snugly but does not interfere with breathing. The abdominal binder should be snug enough to provide support and prevent strain on the incision but not so tight that it restricts breathing or circulation. Applying it loosely will not provide effective support. The binder should cover the abdominal area, not the chest, and should ideally be applied directly to the skin or over a thin dressing, not a bulky gown.
Monitoring After Application of Abdominal Binder	Assess the patient’s respiratory effort and oxygen saturation. The priority after applying an abdominal binder is to ensure it is not restricting the patient's ability to breathe effectively. Respiratory compromise is a potential complication if the binder is too tight.
Postoperative Positioning after Craniotomy. A patient who is postoperative day 1 after a craniotomy for removal of a brain tumor in the right frontal lobe. The patient is lying flat in bed.	Elevate the head of the bed to 30 degrees to promote venous drainage. After a craniotomy, the head of the bed should typically be elevated 30 degrees to facilitate venous drainage, reduce intracranial pressure (ICP), and promote healing. Lying flat increases ICP, and the Trendelenburg position is contraindicated due to its potential to raise ICP further. Turning onto the operative side may increase pressure on the surgical site.
Monitoring for Complications after Craniotomy. Clear drainage from the nose.	Clear drainage from the nose after a craniotomy may indicate cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leakage, which requires immediate intervention to prevent infection (e.g., meningitis) and address potential complications like a dural tear.
Seizure Prophylaxis after Craniotomy.	Example: levetiracetam (Keppra) "This medication helps prevent seizures, which are a common complication after brain surgery." Seizures are a common complication following a craniotomy, particularly if the surgery involved manipulation of the brain tissue. Antiepileptic medications like levetiracetam are used to prevent seizures.
Reducing Intracranial Pressure (ICP)	Maintain a quiet environment with minimal stimulation. A quiet, low-stimulation environment helps reduce agitation and prevents an increase in intracranial pressure. AVOID: Rapid IV fluid administration can cause cerebral edema. Forceful coughing increases ICP, and high Fowler’s position can impair venous drainage and increase ICP.
Recognizing Early Signs of Increased ICP	Confusion, worsening headache, and blurred vision. Worsening headache, blurred vision, and lethargy are early signs of increased intracranial pressure (ICP), which is a medical emergency. Prompt notification of the healthcare provider is necessary to prevent further complications, such as brain herniation.
Post-Operative Positioning (Lumbar laminectomy)	Supine with a pillow under the knees or side-lying with knees slightly bent to reduce pressure on the spine.
Purpose of Surgery (Laminectomy)	Examples: Herniated disc, spinal stenosis, or nerve root compression.
Neurological Assessments (After a cervical laminectomy, the nurse notices the patient has weak hand grasps bilaterally. What is the priority action?)	Notify the surgeon immediately; this may indicate spinal cord or nerve compression.
Pain Management. A patient reports pain radiating down their leg after a lumbar discectomy. How should the nurse respond?	Assess for signs of nerve damage or reherniation and notify the physician.
What signs indicate a cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak after a laminectomy?	Clear drainage at the surgical site or severe headache when sitting upright.
Which nursing interventions can reduce the risk of DVT after spinal surgery?	Encourage early ambulation, use compression stockings, or administer anticoagulants as prescribed.
Mobility and Activity Restrictions after a lumbar discectomy	Patients are typically restricted from heavy lifting for several weeks to months.
A patient reports new onset of bowel and bladder incontinence after a laminectomy. What is the nurse's priority action?	Notify the physician immediately; this could indicate cauda equina syndrome.
What instructions should the nurse provide to a patient regarding incision care after a discectomy?	Keep the incision clean and dry, avoid soaking in water, and report signs of redness, swelling, or drainage.
Spinal Precautions. What instruction should the nurse include to prevent strain on the spine after a lumbar laminectomy?	Use a log-rolling technique when changing positions.
Assistive Devices. Teachings to a patient about wearing a lumbar brace after surgery.	Wear the brace when sitting or standing but can remove it while lying down.
Recognizing the signs and symptoms of dislocation post-THR.	Severe hip pain, shortening of the affected leg, external rotation of the leg and inability to move the hip.
Positioning to Prevent Dislocation. Which position should the nurse avoid when caring for a patient post-total hip replacement?	Hip flexion greater than 90°, adduction, or internal rotation of the hip.
Positioning to Prevent Dislocation. What should the nurse teach the patient about sleeping positions after a total hip replacement?	Use an abduction pillow and sleep on the non-operative side if permitted by the surgeon.
Post-Operative Mobility.	Use a raised toilet seat and chairs with armrests to avoid flexing the hip beyond 90°.
What should the nurse teach the patient about stair climbing after hip replacement surgery?	Lead with the non-operative leg going up and the operative leg going down. Remember: "Good leg goes to heaven (up), Bad leg goes to hell (down)"
What is the priority intervention to prevent DVT after total hip replacement surgery?	Encourage early ambulation, administer prescribed anticoagulants, and use compression devices.
What are the signs of infection after total hip replacement?	Redness, warmth, swelling, fever, and purulent drainage.
Teaching to a patient on how to use a walker after a total hip replacement. What instruction should the nurse include?	Advance the walker first, then move the operative leg forward, followed by the non-operative leg.
What to avoid to prevent Hip Flexion Beyond 90°.	Examples: Sitting in a low chair, bending forward to tie shoes, or crossing legs at the knees.
Rehabilitation and Home Care. What modifications should a patient make at home after a total hip replacement?	Install raised toilet seats, avoid rugs, and use grab bars in the bathroom.
What activity should the nurse caution against during recovery from total hip replacement surgery?	High-impact activities such as running or jumping.
Pain Management. A patient complains of discomfort in the hip joint after a total hip replacement. What should the nurse do first?	Assess the site for signs of dislocation, infection, or other complications, and administer prescribed analgesics as needed.
What is the priority assessment for a patient after a total hip replacement?	Neurovascular checks (e.g., capillary refill, pulses, sensation, and movement) to ensure proper circulation to the affected limb.
Post-Operative Stump Care (amputation)	Wash the limb daily with mild soap and water, keep it dry, and inspect for redness, swelling, or open areas.
What is the purpose of wrapping the residual limb with an elastic bandage?	To shape the limb for prosthesis and reduce swelling.
Phantom Limb Pain	Reassure the patient that phantom limb pain is common and administer prescribed medications like analgesics, anticonvulsants, or antidepressants.
Non-pharmacological interventions that can help relieve phantom limb pain	Mirror box therapy, relaxation techniques, or massage of the residual limb.
Positioning to Prevent Contractures. (below-the-knee amputation)	Avoid prolonged sitting and elevate the stump briefly after surgery to reduce swelling, but ensure the limb is kept flat on the bed to prevent hip or knee contractures.
What is the best position to prevent hip flexion contractures after an above-the-knee amputation?	Lie prone for 30 minutes several times a day.
Psychosocial Support. A patient expresses feelings of hopelessness after an amputation. What is the nurse's best response?	Provide emotional support, encourage the patient to express their feelings, and offer resources such as support groups or counseling.
Example of statement by the patient indicates they are adjusting to the amputation.	"I’m learning to use my prosthesis and manage my daily activities."
What should the nurse teach a patient about prosthesis care?	Ensure proper fit, clean the prosthesis daily, and inspect the residual limb for signs of pressure or irritation.
What signs and symptoms of infection should a nurse teach a patient with an amputation to monitor for?	Redness, swelling, warmth, drainage, and fever.
How can the nurse help prevent skin breakdown in a patient with an amputation?	Teach proper stump hygiene, use appropriate padding in the prosthesis, and encourage frequent position changes.
What is the best method to reduce edema in the residual limb immediately after surgery?	Elevate the limb for the first 24–48 hours, then keep it flat to prevent contractures.
Why is an elastic compression bandage applied to the residual limb?	To reduce swelling and shape the limb for prosthesis fitting.
Preventing and Managing Hemorrhage. A patient is post-op from a below-the-knee amputation and has a sudden increase in drainage on the dressing. What is the nurse’s priority action?	Apply pressure to the site, elevate the limb, and notify the provider immediately.
Which assistive device is best for a patient learning to ambulate after an amputation?	A walker or crutches, depending on their balance and strength.
What is the nurse's priority teaching for a patient learning to use a wheelchair after a lower extremity amputation?	Teach the patient how to prevent tipping by positioning the wheelchair correctly and balancing their weight.
A patient avoids looking at their residual limb after surgery. What should the nurse do?	Encourage the patient to gradually explore their feelings and look at the limb when they are ready, offering support and reassurance.
What is the most therapeutic response to a patient saying, “I don’t feel like myself anymore” after an amputation?	"It’s normal to feel this way. Let’s talk about what’s been hardest for you."
Purpose of Chest Tubes (hemothorax).	To drain blood from the pleural space and restore negative pressure.
What is the purpose of the water seal chamber in a chest drainage system?	To prevent air from entering the pleural space while allowing air and fluid to escape.
How should the suction control chamber function when connected to wall suction?	Gentle bubbling should be present, indicating proper suction.
The nurse notices continuous bubbling in the water seal chamber. What should the nurse do?	Check for an air leak in the system and notify the physician if needed.
How should the nurse assess for proper chest tube placement and function?	Monitor drainage, check for tidaling in the water seal chamber, and assess respiratory status.
A chest tube drainage system shows 150 mL of bright red blood in the first hour post-insertion. What should the nurse do?	Notify the physician immediately; this may indicate hemorrhage. 50–100 mL/hour of serosanguineous (pinkish, watery) drainage is typically considered within the normal range immediately after chest tube insertion. More than 100–200 mL/hour of bright red blood (or consistent heavy output) may indicate active bleeding (e.g., hemorrhage) and requires immediate notification of the provider. Sudden large increases in drainage output should also be reported. Drainage should gradually decrease over time. Bright red drainage that transitions to serosanguineous and then to yellowish or clear is normal. Monitor trends in drainage output and assess for other symptoms of complications, such as hypotension or tachycardia, which may indicate hypovolemia.
What type of drainage is expected in a patient with a chest tube for a pneumothorax?	Minimal or no drainage; the primary issue is air removal.
What should the nurse do if a chest tube is accidentally dislodged?	Cover the site with a sterile occlusive dressing and tape it on three sides to prevent a tension pneumothorax, then notify the provider.
The nurse notes crepitus (subcutaneous emphysema) around the chest tube insertion site. What is the priority action?	Monitor the extent and notify the physician if it progresses or becomes severe.
What intervention can help prevent blockage in the chest tube?	Ensure the tubing is free of kinks and dependent loops, and avoid milking or stripping the tube unless ordered.
How can the nurse prevent infection at the chest tube insertion site?	Perform sterile dressing changes and monitor for signs of infection like redness, warmth, or drainage.
Which position is most appropriate for a patient with a chest tube?	Semi-Fowler's or high-Fowler's position to promote lung expansion and drainage.
How should the patient be positioned during chest tube insertion?	Sitting upright or side-lying with the arm on the affected side raised.
What should the nurse teach a patient about activity while a chest tube is in place?	Encourage deep breathing, coughing, and incentive spirometry while avoiding pulling on the chest tube.
Clamping the chest tube.	Chest tubes should not be clamped unless ordered by the physician.
Continuous bubbling is observed in the water seal chamber. How should the nurse respond?	Assess the tubing connections for leaks and notify the physician if necessary.
What should the nurse teach the patient before chest tube removal?	Perform the Valsalva maneuver during removal to prevent air from entering the pleural space.
What is the nurse's priority after chest tube removal?	Apply a sterile occlusive dressing and monitor for signs of respiratory distress or pneumothorax.
What is the nurse's first action if the chest drainage system is knocked over?	Upright the system, check the water seal level, and ensure it is functioning properly.
What should the nurse do if the chest tube becomes disconnected from the drainage system (system was damage)?	Submerge the end of the chest tube in sterile water to create a temporary water seal and notify the physician.
What is the purpose of an urostomy/ileal conduit?	To divert urine from the kidneys through a segment of the intestine to a stoma, bypassing the bladder due to conditions such as bladder cancer or neurogenic bladder.
What type of urine output is expected with an ileal conduit?	Continuous drainage of urine through the stoma, often mixed with mucus from the intestinal segment.
What should a healthy stoma look like?	Pink, moist, and slightly raised above the skin surface.
What is the nurse’s priority if the stoma appears pale or bluish?	Notify the physician mmediately as this may indicate impaired blood flow to the stoma.
What intervention should the nurse teach to prevent peristomal skin breakdown?	Use a properly fitting pouch, clean the skin with warm water, and apply a skin barrier before attaching the pouch.
A patient reports redness and irritation around the stoma. What is the nurse’s best action?	Assess for leakage, ensure the appliance fits correctly, and apply a protective skin barrier.
How much urine output is expected from an ileal conduit?	At least 30 mL/hour; less than this may indicate dehydration or obstruction.
The patient’s urine from the ileal conduit contains thick mucus. What should the nurse do?	Reassure the patient that this is normal and encourage increased fluid intake to prevent mucus plugs.
What are signs of infection in a patient with an ileal conduit?	Cloudy or foul-smelling urine, fever, and redness or drainage around the stoma.
What should the nurse teach the patient about reducing infection risk?	Empty the pouch when it is one-third full, maintain a clean pouch system, and increase fluid intake.
How often should the patient change their urostomy pouch?	Every 3–5/7 days or sooner if there is leakage.
What type of pouch is best for a patient with an ileal conduit?	A drainable pouch with a secure seal to accommodate continuous urine output.
A patient expresses embarrassment about living with a urostomy. What is the nurse’s best response?	Offer emotional support, encourage participation in a urostomy support group, and provide resources for lifestyle adjustments.
When to empty the urostomy pouch?	One-third full to avoid leakage
A patient with an ileal conduit has no urine output for the past 2 hours. What is the nurse’s priority action?	Assess for signs of obstruction or dehydration and notify the physician immediately.
The nurse notices leakage from the urostomy pouch. What is the best intervention?	Remove the pouch, clean the area, and apply a new appliance with a proper fit.
What should the nurse include in discharge teaching for a patient with an ileal conduit?	Clean the stoma and change the appliance as needed. Drink plenty of fluids to flush mucus and reduce the risk of infection. Monitor for signs of infection or stoma complications.
Patient teaching about adhesive tape for urostomy.	Only use skin-safe adhesive products designed for stoma care.
What activities can a patient with a urostomy safely participate in?	Most activities, including swimming, with proper precautions and use of a waterproof pouch.
What dietary recommendations should the nurse provide?	Encourage fluids, avoid foods that can cause strong urine odors (e.g., asparagus, fish), and monitor for foods that increase mucus production.
What is the purpose of a nephrectomy?	To remove a diseased or non-functioning kidney, treat renal cancer, or address severe trauma or infections.
Which lab tests are important before a nephrectomy?	Kidney function tests (e.g., BUN, creatinine), complete blood count (CBC), coagulation studies, and electrolyte levels.
A patient has just returned from a nephrectomy. What is the nurse’s priority assessment?	Monitor vital signs and urine output closely for signs of bleeding or impaired kidney function.
How much urine output should be expected after a nephrectomy?	At least 30 mL/hour from the remaining kidney.
What lab values should the nurse monitor in a patient after nephrectomy?	Serum creatinine, BUN, and electrolytes.
What foods should a patient with one kidney avoid?	High-protein diets, excessive sodium, and foods that can lead to kidney strain.
What is the most important teaching point for a patient with one functioning kidney after nephrectomy?	Avoid nephrotoxic substances, such as NSAIDs or excessive alcohol, and stay hydrated.
A patient post-nephrectomy has a blood pressure of 85/50 mmHg and reports dizziness. What is the nurse’s priority action?	Assess for signs of hemorrhage and notify the provider immediately.
What is the purpose of a percutaneous nephrostomy?	To bypass a urinary obstruction (e.g., kidney stones, tumors) and allow urine to drain directly from the kidney.
What teaching should the nurse provide to a patient before a percutaneous nephrostomy?	Explain the procedure, ensure informed consent, and advise the patient that sedation or local anesthesia will be used.
What is the priority nursing intervention after a percutaneous nephrostomy tube placement?	Ensure the nephrostomy tube is patent, secure, and properly draining.
A patient with a nephrostomy reports no urine output for the past 2 hours. What is the nurse’s first action?	Check for kinks or obstructions in the nephrostomy tubing and notify the physician if unresolved.
What is a major complication of a nephrostomy tube?	Infection or blockage of the tube.
A patient reports flank pain after nephrostomy tube placement. What is the nurse’s best action?	Assess for tube obstruction or infection and administer prescribed analgesics. If the physician clamped the tube, unclamp the tube and notify the physician.
What non-pharmacological interventions can help reduce discomfort after nephrectomy?	Position the patient with the operative side up, provide support when moving, and encourage deep breathing exercises.
What is the best way to prevent infection at the nephrostomy tube site?	Perform sterile dressing changes and keep the site clean and dry.
What should the nurse assess at the nephrostomy tube site?	Redness, swelling, drainage, or signs of infection.
What should the nurse teach a patient with a nephrostomy tube about home care?	Flush the tube as prescribed to prevent blockage. Keep the drainage bag below the level of the kidney. Report signs of infection or blockage (e.g., fever, decreased output, pain).
A patient expresses fear about living with only one kidney. What is the nurse’s best response?	Provide reassurance and educate about lifestyle adjustments for maintaining kidney health.
What dietary advice should the nurse give a patient with a nephrostomy?	Increase fluid intake to prevent blockage and promote drainage.
What imaging might be necessary for a patient with a nephrostomy?	X-ray or ultrasound to confirm tube placement and assess for obstructions.
What is the purpose of an ileostomy?	An ileostomy diverts stool through an opening (stoma) in the abdomen after removing or bypassing part of the colon, often for conditions like ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease, or cancer.
What type of stool is expected from an ileostomy?	Liquid stool, as the large intestine (where water is absorbed) is bypassed.
What does a healthy stoma look like?	Pink to red, moist, and slightly raised.
What should the nurse do if the stoma appears pale or bluish?	Notify the physician immediately as it may indicate compromised blood flow.
What is the best way to prevent skin breakdown around an ileostomy?	Use a properly fitted appliance, clean the skin with warm water, and apply a skin barrier before attaching the pouch.
A patient reports redness and irritation around the stoma. What should the nurse assess?	Check for leaks in the appliance and ensure it fits securely.
What is the normal output from an ileostomy in the first few days post-op?	High output (up to 1,000–1,800 mL/day), which will gradually decrease as the body adjusts.
What should the nurse do if an ileostomy produces no output for several hours?	Assess for signs of obstruction, such as abdominal pain, nausea, or bloating, and notify the physician.
What are signs of ileostomy obstruction?	Abdominal cramping, nausea, bloating, and absence of output.
What is the priority intervention for a patient with dehydration after ileostomy surgery?	Encourage oral fluids, administer IV fluids as prescribed, and monitor electrolytes.
Why is a patient with an ileostomy at risk for dehydration?	The large intestine, where water absorption occurs, is bypassed, leading to increased fluid loss.
What are signs of electrolyte imbalance in a patient with an ileostomy?	Muscle weakness, irregular heartbeat, or confusion (e.g., due to low potassium or sodium).
What foods should a patient avoid after ileostomy surgery?	High-fiber (roughage) or difficult-to-digest foods (e.g., corn, nuts, popcorn, raw vegetables) to prevent blockages.
What should the nurse teach about fluid intake?	Drink at least 8–10 glasses of water daily to prevent dehydration.
A patient expresses embarrassment about their ileostomy. What is the nurse’s best response?	Acknowledge their feelings, provide reassurance, and suggest joining a support group for patients with ostomies.
How often should a patient change their ileostomy appliance?	Every 3–5/7 days or sooner if there is leakage.
What should the nurse teach about emptying the ileostomy pouch?	Empty it when it is one-third full to prevent leaks.
What activities can a patient with an ileostomy safely participate in?	Most activities, including swimming and sports, with proper precautions.
What signs indicate the need for follow-up care?	Persistent stoma bleeding, dramatic changes in output, or signs of infection (e.g., fever, redness around the stoma).