ATI RN
Gastrointestinal NCLEX RN Questions Questions
Question 1 of 5
Carcinoid tumors have a varied malignant potential. The most benign are located in the:
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: appendix. Carcinoid tumors in the appendix are considered the most benign due to their slow growth rate and low metastatic potential. The appendix is a small organ with limited blood supply, which restricts tumor growth and dissemination. Other choices (A: stomach, B: small intestine, C: rectum) have higher malignant potential due to larger size, increased blood supply, and higher likelihood of metastasis. Therefore, the appendix is the most benign location for carcinoid tumors.
Question 2 of 5
Intrinsic factor is required for the intestinal absorption of _ in the upper ileum:
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Intrinsic factor is required for the absorption of Vitamin B12 in the upper ileum. It binds to Vitamin B12, allowing it to be absorbed. Vitamin D (Choice A) is absorbed in the small intestine but does not require intrinsic factor. Amino acids (Choice B) are absorbed in the small intestine but not dependent on intrinsic factor. Choice D is incorrect as intrinsic factor is specifically necessary for the absorption of Vitamin B12.
Question 3 of 5
What is the primary function of the enzyme amylase in digestion?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Breakdown of carbohydrates. Amylase is an enzyme that specifically targets and breaks down carbohydrates like starch into simpler sugars like glucose. This breakdown process starts in the mouth during chewing and continues in the small intestine. Amylase plays a crucial role in the digestion of carbohydrates, facilitating their absorption by the body. Incorrect choices: A: Breakdown of proteins - Proteins are broken down by enzymes like pepsin and trypsin, not by amylase. C: Breakdown of fats - Fats are broken down by lipase enzymes, not by amylase. D: Absorption of water - Water absorption primarily occurs in the large intestine and is not a function of amylase in digestion.
Question 4 of 5
An older patient reports chronic constipation. To promote bowel evacuation, when should the nurse suggest that the patient attempt defecation?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Right after awakening in the morning. This is because the gastrocolic reflex is most active in the morning, leading to increased bowel motility. This reflex is triggered by the presence of food in the stomach and helps facilitate bowel evacuation. Attempting defecation in the morning takes advantage of this natural reflex, making it easier for the patient to have a bowel movement. A: In the middle of the night - Incorrect. Bowel motility is typically lowest during nighttime hours, making it less likely for the patient to have a successful bowel movement. B: In the afternoon - Incorrect. Bowel motility tends to decrease throughout the day, making it less optimal for promoting bowel evacuation. C: After eating breakfast - Incorrect. While eating can stimulate bowel movement, the gastrocolic reflex is most active in the morning, making this a suboptimal time for defecation.
Question 5 of 5
A patient in the emergency department has just been diagnosed with peritonitis from a ruptured diverticulum. Which prescribed intervention will the nurse implement first?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Insert a urinary catheter to drain. In this scenario, the patient has peritonitis from a ruptured diverticulum, which can lead to sepsis. The priority intervention is to insert a urinary catheter to monitor urine output, as decreased urine output can indicate worsening sepsis. This intervention helps assess the patient's fluid status and kidney function, guiding further management. Sending the patient for a CT scan (choice A) can be important for diagnosis but is not the immediate priority. Administering antibiotics like metronidazole (choice D) is crucial, but assessing urine output takes precedence. Choice C is incomplete.