ATI RN
Gastrointestinal System Nursing Exam Questions Questions
Question 1 of 5
A client is suspected of having hepatitis. Which diagnostic test results will assist in confirming this diagnosis?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Elevated serum bilirubin. Hepatitis is characterized by liver inflammation, which can lead to impaired bilirubin metabolism and increased levels in the blood. Elevated serum bilirubin is a common finding in hepatitis. Decreased erythrocyte sedimentation rate (Choice A) is not specific to hepatitis. Elevated hemoglobin (Choice C) and elevated blood urea nitrogen (Choice D) are not typically associated with hepatitis and are more indicative of other conditions. In summary, elevated serum bilirubin is a key diagnostic marker for confirming a diagnosis of hepatitis.
Question 2 of 5
A nurse is reviewing the results of serum laboratory studies drawn on a client who is suspected of having hepatitis. The nurse interprets that an elevation in which of the following studies is the most specific indicator of the disease?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Hemoglobin. In hepatitis, there is destruction of red blood cells, leading to decreased hemoglobin levels. This is a specific indicator of the disease. The other choices are incorrect because A (ESR) is a nonspecific marker of inflammation, B (serum bilirubin) is elevated in liver dysfunction but not specific to hepatitis, and D (BUN) is a measure of kidney function, not related to hepatitis. Hemoglobin, being directly affected by the disease process in hepatitis, is the most specific indicator among the options provided.
Question 3 of 5
The nurse has provided home care instructions to a client who had a subtotal gastrectomy. The nurse instructs the client regarding the signs and symptoms associated with dumping syndrome. Which of the following signs and symptoms, if identified by the client, indicates an understanding of this potential complication following gastrointestinal surgery?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Diaphoresis and diarrhea. Diaphoresis (excessive sweating) and diarrhea are classic signs of dumping syndrome, a common complication after gastrectomy. Diaphoresis occurs due to the rapid movement of food into the intestines, triggering the release of hormones leading to sweating. Diarrhea results from the rapid emptying of undigested food into the intestines. These symptoms typically occur within 30 minutes to 3 hours after eating in dumping syndrome. Explanation for why the other choices are incorrect: A: Hiccups and diarrhea - Hiccups are not typically associated with dumping syndrome. B: Fatigue and abdominal pain - Fatigue and abdominal pain are not specific symptoms of dumping syndrome. C: Constipation and fever - Constipation and fever are not typical signs of dumping syndrome. In summary, diaphoresis and diarrhea are classic symptoms of dumping syndrome due to rapid emptying of food into the intestines, making
Question 4 of 5
A nurse is providing instructions to a client who will collect a stool specimen for occult blood. The nurse instructs the client to avoid which of the following for 3 days before the collection of the stool specimen?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Turnips. Turnips contain peroxidase enzymes that can cause false-positive results in occult blood tests. Therefore, the client should avoid consuming turnips for 3 days before collecting the stool specimen. Incorrect options: A: Milk products - Milk products do not interfere with occult blood tests. B: Hard cheese - Hard cheese does not contain peroxidase enzymes that would affect the test results. D: Cottage cheese - Cottage cheese also does not contain peroxidase enzymes that would interfere with the test.
Question 5 of 5
Which of the following nursing interventions should have the highest priority during the first hour after the admission of a client with cholecystitis who is experiencing pain, nausea, and vomiting?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Administering pain medication. Immediate pain relief is crucial in managing cholecystitis symptoms and improving the client's comfort. Pain can lead to increased stress, anxiety, and physiological responses that can worsen the condition. Administering pain medication promptly can help alleviate these symptoms and allow the client to rest. Completing the admission history (B) is important but can be done after addressing the urgent pain and discomfort. Maintaining hydration (C) is also essential but may not be the highest priority compared to pain relief. Teaching about planned diagnostic tests (D) is important for the client's understanding but can be deferred until the pain and discomfort are managed effectively.