Which of the following is the correct description of an intervention that promotes peristalsis after abdominal surgery?

• A. Prolonged bed rest
• B. Early ambulation
• C. NPO status
• D. High-fat diet

Answer: (B)

Movement after abdominal surgery is key to waking the gut back up. When a patient starts walking, the abdominal muscles and overall body activity stimulate intestinal contractions, improve blood flow to the gut, and help trigger the reflexes that promote peristalsis. This combination speeds the return of bowel function and reduces the risk of postoperative ileus.

Prolonged bed rest slows these processes, since the gut isn’t being stimulated by movement. Keeping the patient NPO limits luminal content and the normal digestive cues that help start motility. A high-fat diet right after surgery can be hard to digest and place extra strain on a recovering gut, not aiding immediate return of peristalsis.