ATI RN
ATI Gastrointestinal System Questions
Question 1 of 5
A client has been taking aluminum hydroxide 30 mL six times per day at home to treat his peptic ulcer. He tells the nurse that he has been unable to have a bowel movement for 3 days. Based on this information, the nurse would determine that which of the following is the most likely cause of the client's constipation?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C) The client is experiencing a side effect of the aluminum hydroxide. Rationale: Aluminum hydroxide is an antacid commonly used to treat peptic ulcers. One of its common side effects is constipation. Aluminum-based antacids can lead to constipation due to their ability to absorb water in the gastrointestinal tract, which can result in decreased bowel motility and difficulty passing stool. Option A) The client has not been including enough fiber in his diet: While fiber intake can impact bowel movements, in this case, the primary reason for constipation is the side effect of the medication, not solely a lack of dietary fiber. Option B) The client needs to increase his daily exercise: While exercise can promote bowel regularity, the client's constipation in this scenario is more likely related to the medication side effect rather than lack of exercise. Option D) The client has developed a gastrointestinal obstruction: This option is less likely as a cause of constipation in this case, as the client's history of aluminum hydroxide use and the duration of constipation make medication side effects a more probable cause. Educational Context: Understanding common side effects of medications used in gastrointestinal disorders is crucial for nurses caring for clients with peptic ulcers. Recognizing the effects of aluminum hydroxide on bowel function can help nurses anticipate and manage constipation in patients taking this medication, ensuring optimal patient outcomes. Nurses should educate clients on potential side effects of medications and encourage open communication about any changes in bowel habits to provide timely interventions.
Question 2 of 5
The nurse is caring for a client with chronic gastritis. The nurse monitors the client, knowing that this client is at risk for which of the following vitamin deficiencies?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: In caring for a client with chronic gastritis, it is crucial to understand the potential complications and deficiencies that may arise. The correct answer is B) Vitamin B12. Clients with chronic gastritis are at risk for decreased intrinsic factor production, which impairs the absorption of Vitamin B12 in the stomach. This can lead to Vitamin B12 deficiency, causing symptoms like anemia and neurological issues. Option A) Vitamin A deficiency is not typically associated with chronic gastritis but is more commonly linked to malabsorption disorders or inadequate dietary intake. Option C) Vitamin C deficiency is usually related to inadequate dietary intake or conditions like scurvy, not specifically chronic gastritis. Option D) Vitamin E deficiency is more commonly seen in conditions that cause fat malabsorption, like cystic fibrosis or cholestatic liver disease, rather than chronic gastritis. Understanding these specific risks in clients with chronic gastritis is vital for nurses to provide appropriate care, monitor for potential deficiencies, and intervene promptly to prevent further complications. This knowledge enhances the nurse's ability to promote optimal outcomes for their patients with gastrointestinal issues.
Question 3 of 5
The nurse is reviewing the medication record of a client with acute gastritis. Which medication, if noted on the client's record, would the nurse question?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: In the context of a client with acute gastritis, the nurse would question the presence of Indomethacin (Indocin) on the medication record. Indomethacin is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that can exacerbate gastritis by irritating the gastric mucosa and increasing the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding and ulcers. The other options are less likely to be questioned in this scenario: A) Digoxin (Lanoxin) is a cardiac medication commonly used to treat heart conditions, not directly related to gastritis. C) Furosemide (Lasix) is a diuretic used to treat fluid retention and hypertension, not typically contraindicated in gastritis. D) Propranolol hydrochloride (Inderal) is a beta-blocker used to manage hypertension and cardiac conditions, which does not directly impact gastritis. Understanding the contraindications and potential adverse effects of medications in relation to specific health conditions like gastritis is crucial in nursing practice to ensure safe and effective care for clients. This question highlights the importance of medication knowledge and its application in the context of gastrointestinal health.
Question 4 of 5
The nurse is assessing a client 24 hours following a cholecystectomy. The nurse notes that the T-tube has drained 750ml of green-brown drainage. Which nursing intervention is most appropriate?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: In this scenario, the most appropriate nursing intervention is to select option B: Document the findings. This is the correct choice because documenting the drainage amount, color, and characteristics is crucial for the ongoing assessment of the client's post-operative condition. Notifying the physician (option A) may be necessary if there are significant changes in the client's condition or if the drainage is excessive, but it is not the most immediate action to take in this situation. Irrigating the T-tube (option C) or clamping the T-tube (option D) without a physician's order can be harmful and should only be done under specific circumstances and with proper authorization. Educationally, understanding the rationale behind documenting findings post-operatively is essential for nursing students. It emphasizes the importance of accurate and timely documentation in providing continuity of care, ensuring appropriate interventions, and facilitating communication among healthcare team members. It also highlights the significance of following proper protocols and seeking guidance from healthcare providers before implementing any interventions.
Question 5 of 5
The nurse provides medication instructions to a client with peptic ulcer disease. Which statement, if made by the client, indicates the best understanding of the medication therapy?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is option A) "The cimetidine (Tagamet) will cause me to produce less stomach acid." This statement indicates the best understanding of the medication therapy for peptic ulcer disease. Cimetidine is a histamine-2 (H2) receptor antagonist that works by decreasing stomach acid production, which helps in healing and preventing ulcers. Option B) "Sucralfate (Carafate) will change the fluid in my stomach" is incorrect because sucralfate works by forming a protective barrier over ulcers, rather than changing the fluid in the stomach. Option C) "Antacids will coat my stomach" is incorrect as antacids neutralize stomach acid but do not provide a protective coating for ulcers like sucralfate. Option D) "Omeprazole (Prilosec) will coat the ulcer and help it heal" is incorrect because omeprazole is a proton pump inhibitor that reduces stomach acid production but does not directly coat the ulcer. Understanding the mechanism of action of each medication is crucial in providing appropriate treatment for peptic ulcer disease. Educating patients on how their medications work empowers them to participate actively in their treatment plan and promotes better adherence and outcomes.