Concerning HCL secretion:

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because HCl secretion is primarily carried out by parietal cells in the stomach lining. Parietal cells contain proton pumps that actively secrete HCl to aid in digestion. Chief cells secrete pepsinogen, not HCl (A is incorrect). Gastrin actually stimulates HCl secretion, so it doesn't inhibit it (C is incorrect). Acetylcholine (Ach) is a neurotransmitter that can stimulate, not inhibit, HCl secretion (D is incorrect). Therefore, option B is the correct choice based on the roles of parietal cells in HCl secretion.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Bile. Bile is not a component of gastric juice; it is produced by the liver and stored in the gallbladder to aid in digestion in the small intestine. Pepsinogen, hydrochloric acid, and mucus are all components of gastric juice. Pepsinogen is the inactive form of pepsin, an enzyme that breaks down proteins. Hydrochloric acid helps in the digestion of food and kills bacteria. Mucus protects the stomach lining from the acidic environment.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C, absent bowel sounds. Absence of bowel sounds may indicate a serious issue requiring further assessment. Normal bowel sounds include soft gurgles and clicks, so choices A, B, and D are variations of normal findings and do not necessarily indicate a need for further assessment. Absent bowel sounds could indicate bowel obstruction, peritonitis, or ischemia, warranting a focused abdominal assessment to determine the underlying cause.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because the nurse should prioritize assessing the patient's condition to ensure immediate safety and appropriate intervention. This includes evaluating for signs of dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, and potential complications like Clostridium difficile infection. Option B is not the first action as immediate assessment is crucial. Option C is important but not the priority at this moment. Option D is important but should not be the first action in this scenario.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: mastication. Mastication refers to the mechanical process of chewing food in the mouth using the teeth and jaws. This process breaks down food into smaller pieces, making it easier to swallow and digest. Churning (A) is the mixing of food with digestive enzymes in the stomach. Peristalsis (C) is the involuntary muscle contractions that move food through the digestive tract. Deglutition (D) is the process of swallowing food. Mastication is the most appropriate term for the process of chewing specifically.