Question

A home care nurse is caring for a client with complaints of epigastric discomfort who is scheduled for a barium swallow. Which statement by the client indicates an understanding of the test?
a) "I'll take a laxative to clear my bowels before the test."
b) "I'll drink full liquids the day before the test."
c) "I'll avoid eating or drinking anything 6 to 8 hours before the test."
d) "There is no need for special preparation before the test."

Answer 1

Answer:

c) "I'll avoid eating or drinking anything 6 to 8 hours before the test."

Explanation:

• Barium is a white substance like chalk. For swallowing, it mixed with water and its thick like milk-shake.
• When it enters into GI tract, it coated with tract lining so when we do X-ray it shows white on X-ray film because barium absorb the X-ray.
• It should be advised the patient to avoid the eating and drinking for clear picture of X-ray film otherwise food debries etc will affect the diagnosis and interpretation of results.