ATI RN
Gastrointestinal System Nursing Exam Questions Questions
Question 1 of 5
After gastric resection surgery, which of the following signs and symptoms would alert the nurse to the development of a leaking anastomosis?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Rationale for choice A: Pain, fever, and abdominal rigidity are classic signs of a leaking anastomosis after gastric resection surgery. Pain indicates inflammation, fever suggests infection, and abdominal rigidity points to peritonitis. These symptoms are indicative of a surgical complication that requires immediate attention to prevent further complications like sepsis. Summary of other choices: B: Diarrhea with fat in the stool is more indicative of malabsorption issues, such as pancreatic insufficiency, rather than a leaking anastomosis. C: Palpitations, pallor, and diaphoresis after eating are more suggestive of cardiovascular issues or anxiety rather than a leaking anastomosis. D: Feelings of fullness and nausea after eating are common postoperative symptoms and do not specifically indicate a leaking anastomosis.
Question 2 of 5
The nurse assesses the client's understanding of the relationship between body position and gastroesophageal reflux. Which response would indicate that the client understands measures to avoid problems with reflux while sleeping?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: "I can elevate the head of the bed 4 to 6 inches." Elevating the head of the bed helps to prevent gastroesophageal reflux by promoting gravity to keep stomach acid from moving back into the esophagus. This position helps to keep the stomach contents in place and reduces the likelihood of reflux during sleep. Choice A is incorrect because elevating the foot of the bed would not be effective in preventing reflux; it may even exacerbate the issue. Choice B is incorrect as sleeping on the stomach can increase pressure on the stomach and worsen reflux. Choice C is also incorrect as sleeping on the back without a pillow under the head may not provide the necessary elevation to prevent reflux effectively.
Question 3 of 5
A client with ulcerative colitis is diagnosed with a mild case of the disease. The nurse doing dietary teaching gives the client examples of foods to eat that represent which of the following therapeutic diets?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Low-roughage without milk. In mild cases of ulcerative colitis, a low-roughage diet is recommended to reduce irritation to the colon. Roughage can exacerbate symptoms. Avoiding milk is also common as lactose intolerance may develop. High-fat (A) and high-protein (B) diets can be difficult to digest and may worsen symptoms. Low-roughage with milk (D) is incorrect as milk can irritate the colon in some individuals with ulcerative colitis.
Question 4 of 5
A nurse is inserting a nasogastric tube in an adult client. During the procedure, the client begins to cough and has difficulty breathing. Which of the following is the most appropriate nursing action?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Pull back on the tube and wait until the respiratory distress subsides. This action allows for the nurse to relieve the pressure on the airway caused by the nasogastric tube, potentially alleviating the client's difficulty in breathing. It is important to prioritize the client's respiratory status and ensure they can breathe comfortably before proceeding with the procedure. A: Removing the tube may worsen the respiratory distress and delay appropriate intervention. C: Quickly inserting the tube can further compromise the client's breathing and cause more distress. D: While notifying the physician is important, immediate intervention to address the breathing difficulty is crucial before seeking further assistance.
Question 5 of 5
A client who has had gastrectomy is not producing sufficient intrinsic factor. The nurse interprets that the client has lost the ability to absorb cyanocobalamin (vitamin B12) in the
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Small intestine. After a gastrectomy, where the stomach is removed or bypassed, intrinsic factor production is reduced, impacting the absorption of vitamin B12. Intrinsic factor is necessary for the absorption of B12 in the small intestine, specifically in the ileum. If vitamin B12 is not absorbed in the small intestine, it can lead to pernicious anemia. Therefore, the small intestine is crucial for the absorption of vitamin B12 in the absence of intrinsic factor. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect as the stomach, large intestine, and colon do not play a significant role in the absorption of vitamin B12.