A nurse enters the room of a client with cramping, bloating, and flatus, as well as diarrhea and/or constipation, with or without the presence of mucus. What condition do the client's symptoms represent?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Irritable bowel syndrome. The symptoms described align with the criteria for diagnosing IBS, such as cramping, bloating, and changes in bowel habits. Peritonitis (A) is characterized by severe abdominal pain, fever, and rigidity. Ulcerative colitis (C) presents with bloody diarrhea and abdominal pain. Appendicitis (D) typically causes localized right lower quadrant pain, nausea, and vomiting. Therefore, based on the given symptoms, IBS is the most likely diagnosis.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Surgery. Surgery increases protein-calorie needs due to the body's increased demand for nutrients to support healing and recovery. The body requires more protein and calories to repair tissues and maintain immune function post-surgery. Choice B: A vegan diet does not necessarily contribute to increased protein-calorie needs as it is possible to meet nutritional requirements with proper planning. Choice C: Lowered temperature does not directly affect protein-calorie needs. Choice D: Cultural or religious beliefs do not inherently increase protein-calorie needs, as dietary choices can still meet nutritional requirements.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: History of untreated depression. Before proceeding with further patient preparation for bariatric surgery, it is crucial to address untreated depression as it can significantly impact the patient's mental and emotional well-being post-operatively. Untreated depression can lead to poor compliance with post-operative instructions, medication management issues, and potentially increase the risk of complications. It is essential to involve the surgeon to assess the patient's psychological readiness for surgery and ensure appropriate support and resources are in place. Incorrect choices: A: History of hypertension - While hypertension should be managed pre-operatively, it is not a critical factor that would require immediate attention before further preparation. C: History of multiple attempts at weight loss - This is a common issue in patients undergoing bariatric surgery and does not pose an immediate risk that needs urgent attention. D: History of sleep apnea treated with CPAP - While sleep apnea is a relevant consideration for bariatric surgery, the fact that it is being treated with

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because a 55-year-old female who is a smoker and experiencing symptoms of nausea and vomiting has multiple risk factors for developing a gastric ulcer. Smoking and older age are established risk factors for gastric ulcers. Nausea and vomiting can be indicative of underlying gastrointestinal issues. Choice B is less likely as illicit drug use typically does not directly increase the risk of gastric ulcers. Choice C is less likely as the male falling while looking for a job does not directly relate to gastric ulcer development. Choice D is less likely as divorce and back pain are not direct risk factors for gastric ulcers.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. Assessing the onset, location, intensity, duration, and character of the pain is the priority because it helps determine the potential cause of the abdominal pain. This information guides further interventions and informs the healthcare team about the urgency of the situation. Choice A (Measurement of vital signs) can be important but assessing the pain characteristics takes precedence as it directly informs the urgency of the situation. Choice B (Administration of prescribed analgesics) should be delayed until the cause of the pain is identified to prevent masking symptoms that could aid in diagnosis. Choice D (Physical assessment of the abdomen) is important but assessing the pain characteristics comes first to guide the physical assessment and subsequent interventions.