ATI RN
NCLEX Questions on Gastrointestinal System Questions
Question 1 of 5
Most of the absorption of nutrients occurs in the _____.
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: jejunum. The jejunum is the middle part of the small intestine where the majority of nutrient absorption takes place. Its large surface area, due to the presence of villi and microvilli, facilitates efficient absorption of nutrients. The duodenum (B) primarily aids in digestion, not absorption. The ileum (D) absorbs bile salts and vitamin B12, but most nutrient absorption occurs in the jejunum. The colon (A) primarily absorbs water and electrolytes, not nutrients. Therefore, the jejunum is the correct answer for the site of most nutrient absorption in the digestive system.
Question 2 of 5
A nurse is reviewing the provider's prescriptions for a client experiencing a paralytic ileus following an appendectomy. Which of the following actions should the nurse expect to take?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Insert nasogastric tube. In a paralytic ileus, the intestines are unable to contract and move contents, leading to bowel obstruction. Inserting a nasogastric tube helps decompress the intestines by removing gas and fluid, relieving discomfort and preventing further complications. Administering an antacid (A) is not indicated for paralytic ileus. Providing a bulk-forming agent (B) may exacerbate the obstruction. Applying a truss (D) is used for hernias, not for paralytic ileus.
Question 3 of 5
A nurse is caring for a client who requires total parenteral nutrition (TPN). Which of the following actions should the nurse take when finding that the TPN solution is infusing too rapidly?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Stop the TPN infusion. If the TPN solution is infusing too rapidly, stopping the infusion is the most appropriate immediate action to prevent potential complications such as hyperglycemia, fluid overload, or electrolyte imbalances. This allows the nurse to assess the situation, adjust the infusion rate, and prevent harm to the client. A: Turning the client on his left side or sitting the client upright would not directly address the issue of the TPN solution infusing too rapidly. C: Adding insulin to the TPN infusion without assessing the client's blood glucose levels and consulting with the healthcare provider could lead to hypoglycemia and is not the initial priority when the TPN rate is too fast.
Question 4 of 5
Nurse Hannah is teaching a group of middle-aged men about peptic ulcers. When discussing risk factors for peptic ulcers, the nurse should mention:
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Alcohol abuse and smoking. Both alcohol abuse and smoking are well-established risk factors for peptic ulcers. Alcohol can irritate and damage the stomach lining, while smoking can increase stomach acid production and weaken the stomach lining. These factors can contribute to the development of peptic ulcers. Choice A (A sedentary lifestyle and smoking) is incorrect because while smoking is a risk factor, a sedentary lifestyle is not directly linked to the development of peptic ulcers. Choice B (A history of hemorrhoids and smoking) is incorrect because hemorrhoids are not a known risk factor for peptic ulcers. Choice C (Alcohol abuse and a history of acute renal failure) is incorrect because acute renal failure is not typically associated with an increased risk of peptic ulcers, unlike alcohol abuse.
Question 5 of 5
If you place a pin through the greater omentum, through how many layers of simple squamous epithelium would the pin pass?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C (2 layers). The greater omentum consists of a double layer of peritoneum, which is a serous membrane composed of simple squamous epithelium. Therefore, when a pin is placed through the greater omentum, it would pass through two layers of simple squamous epithelium. Choice A (0) is incorrect because there are indeed layers of epithelium in the greater omentum. Choice B (1) is incorrect because there are two layers of epithelium. Choice D (3) is incorrect as there are only two layers to pass through.