ATI RN
Gastrointestinal Nursing Questions Questions
Question 1 of 5
Priority Decision: A patient treated for vomiting is to begin oral intake when the symptoms have subside To promote rehydration
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Step 1: The priority is to administer fluids to rehydrate the patient. Step 2: Intravenous fluids are not mentioned, so the nurse should start with oral fluids. Step 3: Option A is the most appropriate choice as it addresses the need for fluid intake to promote rehydration. Step 4: Water (Option B) lacks electrolytes that aid in rehydration. Step 5: Hot tea (Option C) may irritate the stomach and not provide adequate hydration. Step 6: Gatorade (Option D) contains electrolytes but may be too heavy for initial rehydration.
Question 2 of 5
The patient has peritonitis, which is a major complication of appendicitis. What treatment will the nurse plan to include?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: IV fluid replacement. IV fluids are essential in managing peritonitis to maintain hydration and electrolyte balance. It helps to support the patient's circulation and prevent shock. Peritoneal lavage (choice A) is not typically used in the treatment of peritonitis. Peritoneal dialysis (choice B) is used for kidney failure, not peritonitis. Increased oral fluid intake (choice D) may not be sufficient in cases of peritonitis where IV fluids are needed for rapid rehydration and support.
Question 3 of 5
An 82-year-old man is admitted with an acute attack of diverticulitis. What should the nurse include in his care?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Monitor for signs of peritonitis. Peritonitis is a serious complication of diverticulitis that can result from a rupture of inflamed diverticula leading to abdominal infection. Monitoring for signs such as severe abdominal pain, rigidity, and fever is crucial for early detection and prompt intervention. Option B is incorrect as daily medicated enemas are not the standard treatment for diverticulitis. Option C is also incorrect as surgery is usually reserved for complicated cases or recurrent attacks. Option D is incorrect because applying a heating pad may exacerbate inflammation and is not recommended in diverticulitis management.
Question 4 of 5
The family members of a patient with hepatitis A ask if there is anything that will prevent them from developing the disease. What is the best response by the nurse?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Those who have had household or close contact with the patient should receive immune globulin. This is because immune globulin can provide passive immunity to those exposed to hepatitis A, reducing the risk of developing the disease. Hepatitis A vaccine is not effective post-exposure, so it would not prevent disease in this scenario (option B). Option A is incorrect as there is a vaccine available for hepatitis A. Option D is incorrect because hepatitis A is primarily transmitted through fecal-oral route, not sexual contact.
Question 5 of 5
When assessing a patient with acute pancreatitis, the nurse would expect to find
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because severe midepigastric or LUQ pain is a classic symptom of acute pancreatitis due to inflammation of the pancreas. This pain is usually persistent and can radiate to the back. A: Hyperactive bowel sounds are not typically associated with acute pancreatitis but rather with conditions like gastroenteritis. B: Hypertension and tachycardia are not specific to acute pancreatitis and can be seen in various medical conditions. C: While fever can be present in acute pancreatitis, a specific temperature greater than 102°F is not a defining characteristic.