Which finding would indicate normal gastrointestinal activity during abdominal assessment?

• A. No bowel sounds
• B. Guarding
• C. Rebound tenderness
• D. Audible bowel sounds in all four quadrants

Answer: (D)

The key idea is recognizing what abdominal sounds say about GI function. Normal gastrointestinal activity is shown by bowel sounds that are audible in all four quadrants, reflecting peristaltic movement of gas and fluids through the intestines. These sounds are typically gurgles or clicks heard at a regular rate when listening with a stethoscope. Guarding and rebound tenderness signal abdominal pain or peritoneal irritation, not normal activity, and absence of bowel sounds in all four quadrants can indicate reduced motility or obstruction. So, hearing audible bowel sounds in every quadrant best indicates normal GI activity.