ATI RN
Gastrointestinal System Nursing Exam Questions Questions
Question 1 of 5
A client is admitted with a diagnosis of ulcerative colitis. Which of the following symptoms should the nurse expect the client to report when responding to questions about his bowel elimination pattern?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Bloody, diarrheal stools. In ulcerative colitis, inflammation of the colon leads to symptoms such as bloody diarrhea. This occurs due to ulceration and inflammation of the colon lining. The presence of blood in the stool is a hallmark symptom of ulcerative colitis. The other choices are incorrect because: A: Constipation is not typically associated with ulcerative colitis. It is more common in conditions like irritable bowel syndrome. C: Steatorrhea, which is fatty, greasy stools, is not a common symptom of ulcerative colitis. D: Alternating periods of constipation and diarrhea are more indicative of conditions like irritable bowel syndrome or functional gastrointestinal disorders, not specifically ulcerative colitis.
Question 2 of 5
The nurse is caring for a client who underwent a subtotal gastrectomy. To manage dumping syndrome, the nurse should advise the client to:
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: drink liquids only between meals. This is because restricting fluids during meals can worsen dumping syndrome by rapidly emptying the stomach contents into the intestines, causing symptoms like cramping and diarrhea. By advising the client to drink liquids only between meals, it allows for better digestion and absorption of nutrients, reducing the risk of dumping syndrome. Choice A is incorrect because restricting fluid intake can lead to dehydration and other complications. Choice B is incorrect as drinking liquids with meals can exacerbate dumping syndrome symptoms. Choice C is incorrect as not drinking liquids before meals may not effectively manage dumping syndrome and can lead to dehydration.
Question 3 of 5
The nurse is irrigating a client's colostomy when she complains of abdominal cramping after receiving about 100 mL of the irrigating solution. What should the nurse's first response be in this situation?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct response is A: Stop the flow of solution temporarily. This is the appropriate action to take first in this situation to prevent further complications. By stopping the flow of the solution, the nurse can assess the client's condition and determine the cause of the abdominal cramping. Repositioning the client (B) or massaging the abdomen (D) may exacerbate the cramping if there is an underlying issue. Removing the irrigation tube (C) without proper assessment could lead to complications. It is essential to prioritize the client's safety and well-being by halting the irrigation process to address any immediate concerns.
Question 4 of 5
A nurse teaches a preoperative client about the nasogastric tube that will be inserted in preparation for surgery. The nurse determines that the client understands when the tube will be removed in the postoperative period when the client states
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C. The rationale is as follows: The return of bowel function, evidenced by passing gas, is an important indicator of gastrointestinal motility and recovery postoperatively. It indicates that the gastrointestinal system is beginning to function normally, which is a key factor in determining when the nasogastric tube can be safely removed. Choices A and B are too general and do not provide a specific physiological indicator for tube removal. Choice D defers the decision solely to the doctor without considering the client's physiological progress. Therefore, the most appropriate and accurate indicator for tube removal is the return of bowel function and passage of gas, as stated in option C.
Question 5 of 5
A Penrose drain is in place on the first postoperative day following a cholecystectomy. Serosanguineous drainage is noted on the dressing covering the drain. Which nursing intervention is most appropriate?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Change the dressing. This is the most appropriate intervention because serosanguineous drainage can indicate the need for a dressing change to prevent infection and ensure proper wound healing. Changing the dressing will also allow for better assessment of the drainage and the incision site. A: Notifying the physician may not be necessary at this stage since serosanguineous drainage is expected in the early postoperative period. C: Circling the amount on the dressing with a pen does not address the need for a dressing change or further assessment of the drainage. D: Continuing to monitor the drainage is important, but changing the dressing is the immediate action needed to ensure proper wound care.