ATI RN
Gastrointestinal Practice Questions Questions
Question 1 of 5
Combined with clinical manifestations, what is the laboratory finding that is most commonly used to diagnose acute pancreatitis?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B) Increased serum amylase. In the context of diagnosing acute pancreatitis, elevated serum amylase levels are a key laboratory finding. Amylase is an enzyme produced by the pancreas, and its levels rise significantly in response to pancreatic inflammation or injury, making it a useful diagnostic marker for acute pancreatitis. Option A) Increased serum calcium is not the most commonly used laboratory finding to diagnose acute pancreatitis. While calcium levels can be affected in pancreatitis, it is not as specific or sensitive as serum amylase levels in this context. Option C) Increased urinary amylase is not typically used as the primary laboratory test for diagnosing acute pancreatitis. Serum amylase levels are more commonly measured due to their higher sensitivity and specificity for pancreatic pathology. Option D) Decreased serum glucose is not a typical finding in acute pancreatitis. Instead, hyperglycemia can occur in severe cases due to pancreatic damage affecting insulin production, but it is not a primary diagnostic marker for the condition. Educationally, understanding the significance of laboratory findings in diagnosing acute pancreatitis is crucial for healthcare professionals managing patients with abdominal pain or suspected pancreatic issues. Recognizing the role of serum amylase levels in this context enables timely and accurate diagnosis, leading to appropriate treatment and improved patient outcomes.
Question 2 of 5
During a morning assessment, the nurse observes that a patient displays bulging flanks when supine with the knees flexeWhich action should the nurse take next?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Measure the patient's abdominal girth. Bulging flanks could indicate ascites, which is an abnormal accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity. Measuring the abdominal girth can help assess for the presence and severity of ascites. This step is important for further evaluation and monitoring of the patient's condition. Auscultating the abdomen for 5 minutes (choice B) would not address the potential underlying issue of ascites. Simply documenting the finding (choice C) without further assessment could delay necessary interventions. Notifying the charge nurse (choice D) is premature without completing a thorough assessment first.
Question 3 of 5
Which of these is most associated with villi?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: lacteals. Villi are small finger-like projections in the small intestine that increase surface area for nutrient absorption. Lacteals are lymphatic vessels found in villi responsible for absorbing dietary fats. Haustra are pouches in the colon, not associated with villi. Bacterial flora is mainly found in the large intestine, not specifically associated with villi. Intestinal glands are responsible for producing digestive enzymes, but they are not directly associated with villi.
Question 4 of 5
The nurse is caring for a patient receiving a blood transfusion. Which of the following should the nurse do first if the patient develops chills and fever?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Stop the transfusion and notify the healthcare provider. This is the first step because chills and fever during a blood transfusion could indicate a transfusion reaction, which can be serious. Stopping the transfusion is crucial to prevent further complications. Notifying the healthcare provider promptly ensures appropriate assessment and management. Administering acetaminophen (choice B) may help with fever but does not address the underlying issue. Checking the blood bag (choice C) can be done after stopping the transfusion. Increasing the rate of the transfusion (choice D) can exacerbate the reaction and should be avoided.
Question 5 of 5
Where is the majority of absorption of nutrients in the digestive tract?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The majority of absorption of nutrients occurs in the small intestine. This is because the small intestine has a large surface area due to its villi and microvilli, which increase the absorption capacity. Additionally, the small intestine contains specialized cells that facilitate the absorption of nutrients into the bloodstream. In contrast, the stomach's main function is to break down food, the large intestine primarily absorbs water and electrolytes, and the mouth is responsible for initial digestion through chewing and saliva production. Therefore, choice B is correct as it aligns with the anatomical and physiological functions of the digestive system.