ATI RN
Gastrointestinal System Nursing Exam Questions Questions
Question 1 of 5
The carcinoid syndrome is likely to occur with carcinoid tumors:
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because carcinoid syndrome can occur with carcinoid tumors of the appendix and ileum. Carcinoid tumors of the appendix can lead to carcinoid syndrome due to the release of serotonin and other vasoactive substances. Similarly, carcinoid tumors localized to the ileum can also produce these substances, leading to the development of carcinoid syndrome. Choices A and B alone are not comprehensive enough as both sites can give rise to carcinoid syndrome. Choice D is incorrect as carcinoid syndrome can indeed occur with tumors from both sites.
Question 2 of 5
Regarding deglutition (swallowing):
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because swallowing is controlled by the swallowing center in the medulla oblongata. This center coordinates the complex sequence of muscle contractions involved in swallowing, ensuring food moves from the mouth to the esophagus without entering the airway. The pharyngeal phase is actually involuntary, not voluntary (Choice A). Swallowing usually occurs with a closed mouth, not an open one (Choice C). Additionally, the buccal phase is not accompanied by apnea; breathing typically continues during this phase (Choice D). Therefore, the correct answer is B due to the central control of swallowing in the medulla oblongata.
Question 3 of 5
What is the function of bile in digestion?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Emulsify fats. Bile emulsifies fats by breaking them down into smaller droplets, increasing the surface area for enzymes to work on, aiding in the digestion and absorption of fats. Choices B and C are incorrect as bile specifically targets fats, not proteins or carbohydrates. Choice D is incorrect as bile plays a crucial role in fat digestion.
Question 4 of 5
Chemical digestion of protein begins in the:
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: stomach. Chemical digestion of protein begins in the stomach where the enzyme pepsin breaks down proteins into peptides. The stomach's acidic environment activates pepsinogen to pepsin. In contrast, the mouth primarily performs mechanical digestion through chewing, and the small intestine is where further breakdown and absorption of nutrients occur. The large intestine mainly absorbs water and electrolytes, with minimal involvement in protein digestion.
Question 5 of 5
A young adult patient is admitted to the hospital for evaluation of right lower quadrant abdominal pain with nausea and vomiting. Which action should the nurse take?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Palpate the abdomen for rebound tenderness. This action is essential to assess for signs of possible appendicitis, a common cause of right lower quadrant abdominal pain with nausea and vomiting. Rebound tenderness is a classic sign of peritoneal irritation and can indicate an inflamed appendix. The other choices are incorrect because: A: Assisting the patient to cough and deep breath is not a priority in this situation and does not provide relevant information about the cause of the abdominal pain. D: Suggesting the patient lie on the side, flexing the right leg, may help alleviate some discomfort but does not provide diagnostic information about the underlying cause of the symptoms.