ATI RN
Gastrointestinal System Nursing Exam Questions Questions
Question 1 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 2 of 5
The nurse is monitoring a client for the early signs and symptoms for dumping syndrome. Which symptom indicates this occurrence?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C, sweating and pallor, for early signs of dumping syndrome. Dumping syndrome is characterized by rapid emptying of the stomach contents into the small intestine, leading to symptoms like diaphoresis (sweating) and pallor due to vasomotor instability. Abdominal cramping and pain (A) are more commonly associated with gastrointestinal issues, not specific to dumping syndrome. Bradycardia and indigestion (B) are not typical symptoms of dumping syndrome, as it usually presents with tachycardia due to fluid shifts. Double vision and chest pain (D) are not commonly associated with dumping syndrome.
Question 3 of 5
Which of the following nursing measures would be inappropriate when caring for a client with a Cantor tube?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because irrigating the Cantor tube with normal saline solution is inappropriate. Cantor tubes are typically used for gastric decompression or feeding, and irrigating with normal saline can disrupt the balance of electrolytes in the stomach. Choice A is correct as injecting air helps facilitate drainage. Choice B is correct as lubricant aids in tube insertion. Choice C is incorrect as coiling tubing can cause kinks and hinder drainage.
Question 4 of 5
Of the following signs and symptoms of bowel obstruction, which is related primarily to small bowel obstruction rather than large bowel obstruction?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Profuse vomiting. In small bowel obstruction, the vomitus is typically profuse, as the small bowel is narrower and more distensible than the large bowel. This leads to rapid accumulation of gastric contents resulting in frequent vomiting. Cramping abdominal pain (B) can occur in both small and large bowel obstruction. Abdominal distention (C) is a common symptom in both types of obstruction due to the accumulation of gas and fluid. High-pitched bowel sounds above the obstruction (D) are indicative of partial obstruction and can be present in both small and large bowel obstruction.
Question 5 of 5
A nurse is assigned to a 40-year-old client who has a diagnosis of chronic pancreatitis. The nurse reviews the laboratory result, anticipating a laboratory report that indicates a serum amylase level of
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C (300 units/L) because in chronic pancreatitis, there is ongoing inflammation and damage to the pancreas, leading to elevated serum amylase levels. A level of 300 units/L is indicative of pancreatitis. Choices A and B are too low for chronic pancreatitis, and choice D is too high and would typically be seen in acute pancreatitis.