ATI RN
Questions on Gastrointestinal Tract Questions
Question 1 of 5
Corticosteroid medications are associated with the development of peptic ulcers because of which probable pathophysiologic mechanism?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because corticosteroids inhibit the synthesis of mucus and prostaglandins, which are important for protecting the stomach lining. Without enough mucus and prostaglandins, the stomach lining becomes more susceptible to damage from stomach acid, leading to the development of peptic ulcers. Choice A is incorrect because the enzyme urease is associated with the development of Helicobacter pylori infection, not peptic ulcers directly. Choice B is incorrect because corticosteroids actually decrease hydrochloric acid secretion. Choice C is incorrect because a decreased rate of mucous cell renewal would lead to decreased mucus production, which could contribute to peptic ulcers, but it is not the primary mechanism associated with corticosteroids.
Question 2 of 5
On examining a patient 8 hours after having surgery to create a colostomy, what should the nurse expect to find?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because 8 hours post colostomy surgery, a purplish stoma that is shiny and moist with mucus indicates adequate blood supply and tissue perfusion, which are signs of a healthy stoma. A is incorrect as hyperactive, high-pitched bowel sounds are not expected immediately post-surgery. B is incorrect as a brick-red, puffy stoma oozing blood could indicate poor perfusion. D is incorrect as liquid fecal drainage is not expected immediately post-surgery; it usually starts a few days later.
Question 3 of 5
Although HAV antigens are not tested in the blood, they stimulate specific immunoglobulin M (IgM) and immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies. Which antibody indicates there is acute HAV infection?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Anti-HAV IgM. IgM antibodies indicate acute infection as they are the first antibodies produced in response to a new infection. In the case of HAV, the presence of Anti-HAV IgM suggests recent exposure to the virus. A: Anti-HBc IgG is not relevant to HAV infection. It indicates past or chronic hepatitis B infection. B: Anti-HBc IgM is specific to hepatitis B infection, not HAV. C: Anti-HAV IgG indicates past exposure or immunity to HAV, not acute infection.
Question 4 of 5
Priority Decision: During the treatment of the patient with bleeding esophageal varices, what is the most important thing the nurse should do?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Rationale: The correct answer is C because maintaining the patient's airway and preventing aspiration of blood is the top priority in a patient with bleeding esophageal varices. This is crucial to prevent respiratory compromise and potential life-threatening complications. Immediate portal shunting surgery (A) is not the priority as stabilizing the patient comes first. Guaiac testing (B) is not the priority as it does not address the immediate risk of airway obstruction. Monitoring cardiac effects (D) is important but not as critical as ensuring the patient's airway is secure.
Question 5 of 5
What is a common complication following a laparoscopic cholecystectomy?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Bile leak. After a laparoscopic cholecystectomy, bile leak is a common complication due to injury to the bile ducts during surgery. This can lead to abdominal pain, infection, and other serious complications. Wound infection (B) is less common in laparoscopic surgeries. Deep vein thrombosis (C) and pulmonary embolism (D) are more associated with prolonged immobility post-surgery, which is less of a concern in laparoscopic cholecystectomy.