Surgical management of ulcerative colitis may be performed to treat which of the following complications?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In the context of medical surgical nursing, understanding the rationale behind the surgical management of ulcerative colitis is crucial for providing effective patient care. In this scenario, the correct answer is D) Bowel perforation. Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammatory condition that primarily affects the colon and rectum. In severe cases, ulcerative colitis can lead to complications such as toxic megacolon, which can result in bowel perforation. Surgical management in ulcerative colitis is often indicated for patients who do not respond to medical therapy or who develop serious complications like bowel perforation. Now, let's analyze why the other options are incorrect: A) Gastritis: Gastritis refers to inflammation of the stomach lining, which is not a direct complication of ulcerative colitis. B) Bowel herniation: While bowel herniation can occur in various conditions, it is not a common complication specifically associated with ulcerative colitis. C) Bowel outpouching: This is more commonly seen in conditions like diverticulosis/diverticulitis and is not a typical complication of ulcerative colitis. Educationally, this question highlights the importance of recognizing the potential complications of ulcerative colitis and the need for timely surgical intervention in cases of bowel perforation to prevent further complications like sepsis or peritonitis. Understanding these concepts is essential for nurses caring for patients with ulcerative colitis to ensure prompt identification and appropriate management of complications.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In the context of recovery from ostomy surgery for ulcerative colitis, the first priority of client care should be skin care (option D). This is because proper skin care around the stoma is crucial to prevent skin breakdown, irritation, and infection which are common issues in ostomy patients. Maintaining skin integrity is essential for the overall well-being and comfort of the patient. Regarding why the other options are not the first priority: - Body image (option A): While body image is important for a patient's psychosocial well-being, immediate post-operative care should focus on physiological needs like skin care to prevent complications. - Ostomy care (option B): While important, the question specifies "during the first few days of recovery," where skin care takes precedence over routine ostomy care. - Sexual concerns (option C): While sexuality and intimacy are important aspects of a patient's life, they are not the immediate priority in the early days of post-operative care. In an educational context, understanding the prioritization of care based on the patient's immediate needs post-surgery is crucial for nursing students and healthcare professionals. Emphasizing the importance of skin care in ostomy patients can prevent complications and promote better outcomes for patients undergoing such surgeries.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In the context of medical-surgical nursing, understanding the association between colon cancer and various gastrointestinal conditions is crucial for providing quality patient care. In this scenario, the correct answer is option D: Ulcerative colitis. Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease that primarily affects the colon and rectum. Patients with ulcerative colitis have an increased risk of developing colon cancer due to the chronic inflammation and changes that occur in the lining of the colon over time. This association underscores the importance of regular monitoring and surveillance for colon cancer in patients with ulcerative colitis. Now, let's discuss why the other options are incorrect: A) Appendicitis: Appendicitis is inflammation of the appendix, which is a different anatomical structure than the colon. It is not directly associated with an increased risk of colon cancer. B) Hemorrhoids: Hemorrhoids are swollen blood vessels in the rectum and anus. While they can cause discomfort and bleeding, they are not linked to an increased risk of colon cancer. C) Hiatal hernia: A hiatal hernia involves the protrusion of the stomach through the diaphragm into the chest cavity. This condition affects the upper gastrointestinal tract and is not related to colon cancer. Educationally, understanding these associations helps nurses in assessing and educating patients about their gastrointestinal health. It highlights the importance of thorough patient history-taking, symptom assessment, and recognizing risk factors for gastrointestinal conditions, including colon cancer. This knowledge empowers nurses to provide comprehensive care and support to patients with gastrointestinal issues.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In the context of medical-surgical nursing and gastrointestinal health, understanding the relationship between diet and colon cancer is crucial. The correct answer, A) Low-fiber, high fat, is most commonly associated with colon cancer for several reasons. A diet low in fiber and high in fat can lead to constipation and prolonged exposure of the colon to carcinogens present in the stool, increasing the risk of colon cancer development. Option B) Low-fat, high-fiber is actually a more favorable diet for colon health. High-fiber diets promote regular bowel movements and help to remove toxins from the body, reducing the risk of colon cancer. Option C) Low-protein, high-carbohydrate and Option D) Low carbohydrate, high protein are not directly linked to an increased risk of colon cancer. While a balanced intake of protein and carbohydrates is important for overall health, it is the low-fiber, high-fat diet that is particularly problematic in the context of colon cancer. Educationally, this question highlights the importance of nutritional factors in the development of gastrointestinal diseases such as colon cancer. Nurses need to be able to educate patients on the significance of a balanced diet rich in fiber and low in unhealthy fats to promote colon health and reduce the risk of colorectal cancer. Understanding these dietary relationships empowers nurses to provide evidence-based dietary guidance to their patients for optimal health outcomes.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In the context of medical surgical nursing, understanding the importance of appropriate diagnostic tests for colon cancer screening is crucial. The correct answer, D) Fecal occult blood test, is the recommended screening test for colon cancer in individuals over the age of 50. This test detects hidden blood in the stool, which can be an early sign of colon cancer. Abdominal CT scan (A) and abdominal x-ray (B) are not routine screening tests for colon cancer. These imaging studies are not as sensitive or specific for detecting early signs of colon cancer compared to direct visualization methods like a colonoscopy (C) or fecal occult blood test. Educationally, it is important for medical surgical nursing students to understand the rationale behind choosing specific diagnostic tests based on evidence-based guidelines. Emphasizing the importance of regular screening for colon cancer can help prevent late-stage diagnoses and improve patient outcomes. Nurses play a key role in educating patients about the importance of screening tests and assisting in coordinating these screenings to promote early detection and treatment.