Care for the postoperative client after gastric resection should focus on which of the following problems?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In the context of caring for a postoperative client after gastric resection, focusing on nutritional needs (Option B) is paramount. This surgery involves the removal or alteration of a portion of the stomach, impacting the client's ability to digest and absorb nutrients effectively. Postoperatively, patients may experience changes in dietary requirements, malabsorption issues, or the need for specialized diets to prevent complications like malnutrition or dumping syndrome. Focusing on body image (Option A) is important for the client's psychological well-being, but in the immediate postoperative phase, ensuring adequate nutrition takes precedence over body image concerns. Skin care (Option C) is essential for preventing pressure ulcers in immobile patients but is not the primary concern after gastric resection. Addressing spiritual needs (Option D) is significant for holistic care, but it is not as critical as ensuring proper nutrition for recovery after this type of surgery. Educationally, understanding the priority of care post-gastric resection helps nursing students and healthcare professionals provide evidence-based and patient-centered care. It reinforces the importance of prioritizing interventions based on the client's physiological needs and the surgical procedure performed, ultimately promoting better outcomes and patient satisfaction.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In the context of rectal cancer, the correct symptom that a client may exhibit is rectal bleeding (Option C). This is because rectal cancer often presents with symptoms such as blood in the stool, changes in bowel habits, and rectal bleeding. Option A, abdominal fullness, is not typically a primary symptom of rectal cancer. Abdominal fullness may be seen in other gastrointestinal conditions like ascites or bowel obstruction, but it is not a hallmark symptom of rectal cancer. Option B, gastric fullness, is more indicative of issues within the stomach or upper gastrointestinal tract, such as gastritis or gastric outlet obstruction. It is not directly related to rectal cancer. Option D, right upper quadrant pain, is commonly associated with issues involving the liver or gallbladder, such as cholecystitis or hepatitis. It is not a typical symptom of rectal cancer. Educationally, understanding the specific symptoms associated with different types of cancer is crucial for nurses to provide early detection and appropriate interventions. Recognizing the key signs of rectal cancer can lead to timely diagnosis and improved patient outcomes. Nurses play a vital role in patient education, screening, and support for individuals at risk for colorectal cancers.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In the context of medical-surgical nursing, understanding the risk factors for different conditions is crucial for providing effective care. In this case, the correct answer is option A) Adenomatous polyps. Adenomatous polyps are considered precancerous lesions in the colon and rectum. If left untreated, these polyps can progress to develop into colorectal cancer, including rectal cancer. Therefore, a client with adenomatous polyps is at an increased risk of developing rectal cancer. Option B) Diverticulitis is an inflammatory condition of the diverticula in the colon and, while it can lead to complications, it is not directly associated with an increased risk of rectal cancer. Option C) Hemorrhoids are swollen blood vessels in the rectum and anus, which do not predispose an individual to rectal cancer. Option D) Peptic ulcer disease is a condition involving ulcers in the stomach or proximal duodenum, and it is not a known risk factor for rectal cancer. Educationally, this question highlights the importance of recognizing risk factors for colorectal cancer, such as adenomatous polyps. Nurses need to understand these risk factors to provide appropriate patient education, screening recommendations, and support for individuals at risk for developing colorectal cancer, including rectal cancer. By knowing these risk factors, nurses can promote early detection and intervention, ultimately improving patient outcomes.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In the context of rectal cancer versus colon cancer treatment, understanding the key differences in management strategies is crucial. The correct answer is C) Radiation. Radiation therapy is often used specifically for rectal cancer due to its anatomical proximity to surrounding structures such as the pelvic organs. Rectal cancer treatment commonly involves a combination of radiation and surgery to effectively target the tumor and reduce the risk of local recurrence. Option A) Chemotherapy is a systemic treatment that can be used for both rectal and colon cancer to target cancer cells throughout the body. It is not a treatment that distinguishes between the two types of cancer based on location. Option B) Colonoscopy is a diagnostic procedure used to visualize the colon and rectum for abnormalities such as polyps or tumors. While it is essential for screening and surveillance in both colon and rectal cancers, it is not a treatment modality. Option D) Surgical resection is a common treatment approach for both rectal and colon cancer, involving the removal of the tumor along with surrounding healthy tissue. However, the key difference lies in the extent and type of surgery needed based on the location and stage of the cancer, rather than being exclusive to rectal cancer. Educationally, this question highlights the importance of understanding the nuances in treatment modalities for different types of gastrointestinal cancers. It underscores the need for tailored approaches in oncology based on tumor location, stage, and individual patient factors to optimize outcomes and minimize risks associated with each treatment option.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is C) Perforated ulcer. Peritonitis is the inflammation of the peritoneum, the lining of the abdominal cavity, usually caused by contamination from a perforated viscus. A perforated ulcer is a breach in the wall of the stomach or intestines, allowing gastric or intestinal contents to leak into the peritoneal cavity, leading to peritonitis. Option A) Cholelithiasis refers to the presence of gallstones in the gallbladder and does not directly cause peritonitis. Option B) Gastritis is inflammation of the stomach lining and does not involve perforation or leakage of contents. Option D) Incarcerated hernia involves a trapped segment of the intestine in the hernia sac but does not necessarily lead to perforation and peritonitis. Educationally, understanding the direct causes of peritonitis is crucial in medical-surgical nursing. Recognizing conditions like perforated ulcers that can lead to this serious complication is essential for prompt intervention and preventing further complications for the patient. Nurses need to be able to differentiate between various abdominal pathologies to provide appropriate care and ensure positive patient outcomes.