ANCC Medical-Surgical Nursing Exam Prep

Answer - A - The definitive diagnosis of intussusception is based on a barium enema, which clearly demonstrates the telescoping of the bowel wall, which blocks the flow of the barium. Choice B is incorrect because although a secondary effect may be a nonsurgical reduction of the telescoping (which may occur due to hydrostatic pressure), this is uncertain and is not the main reason the procedure is performed. Choices C and D are incorrect because a barium enema is not administered to ease passage of stool or to provide symptomatic relief.