NCLEX-PN
NCLEX Gastrointestinal Questions
Question 1 of 5
Which intervention should the nurse implement when administering a potassium supplement?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Asking about leg cramps assesses for hypokalemia symptoms, ensuring the potassium supplement is needed and effective. Allergies, BP, and CBC are less specific.
Question 2 of 5
The client with a new colostomy is being discharged. Which statement made by the client indicates the need for further teaching?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: A liquid-only diet is unnecessary; a regular diet can be resumed as tolerated unless otherwise specified, as colostomies begin functioning soon after surgery. The other statements reflect correct colostomy care.
Question 3 of 5
The nurse is caring for the client diagnosed with cirrhosis. After completing discharge education, the nurse recognizes the need for further teaching when the client makes which statement?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: A. Alcohol intake is a major cause of cirrhosis and must be eliminated from the client’s diet. B. Rest may enable the liver to restore itself and should be encouraged. C. Although propranolol (Inderal) does decrease BP, it is not ordered for this purpose in treating cirrhosis. Prophylactic treatment with a nonselective beta blocker like propranolol has been shown to reduce the risk of bleeding from esophageal varices and to reduce bleeding-related deaths. D. Furosemide (Lasix) is used in combination with potassium-sparing diuretics to decrease ascites.
Question 4 of 5
The 25-year-old client, hospitalized with an exacerbation of distal ulcerative colitis, is prescribed mesalamine rectally via enema. The client states that an enema is disgusting and wants to know why the medication cannot be given orally. Which is the best response by the nurse?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: A. If the client still desires a change in medication route after the rationale for rectal administration is explained, the HCP should be consulted. B. This is the nurse’s best response because it explains the purpose for administration via enema. This route delivers mesalamine (Asacol) directly to the affected area, thus maximizing effectiveness and minimizing side effects. C. Oral administration is possible, but rectal administration is preferred in distal colitis. D. Nurses cannot order medications or change medication routes without specific approval by the HCP, who is licensed to prescribe medications.
Question 5 of 5
Which problem is most appropriate for the nurse to identify for the client with diarrhea?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Diarrhea can cause perianal skin breakdown, making alteration in skin integrity the most appropriate problem. Pain is less common, fluid volume is deficient, and coping is secondary.