ATI RN
NCLEX Questions Gastrointestinal System Questions
Question 1 of 5
The pacemaker signal generated by the SA node spreads to the ventricles by passing through the AV node. What would happen to the contraction of the ventricles if there was a complete block at the AV node?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Rationale: A complete block at the AV node would prevent the transmission of the pacemaker signal from the SA node to the ventricles. As a result, the ventricles would not receive the signal to contract at their normal rate. Instead, they would rely on their inherent ability to generate impulses, resulting in a slower, but still rhythmic contraction. This scenario is known as an escape rhythm, where a lower pacemaker takes over in the absence of the SA node signal. Summary: A: the ventricles would cease beating - Incorrect, as the ventricles have their own intrinsic pacemaker. B: the ventricles would beat very fast and uncontrollably - Incorrect, as a complete AV block would lead to a slower rhythm. D: the ventricles would contract at the same rate as the atria - Incorrect, as the ventricles and atria have different intrinsic rates.
Question 2 of 5
A client has to undergo a barium enema for a suspected GI disorder. During the test, he experiences a strong urge to defecate and seeks the nurse's advice. Which of the following should the nurse do?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Assure him that most people can retain the urge. The rationale is as follows: 1. Retaining the urge during a barium enema is common due to the pressure from the barium solution. 2. Advising the client to clear his bowel immediately is incorrect because it may disrupt the test. 3. Giving analgesics to relieve the urge is incorrect as it does not address the issue. 4. Instructing to drink plenty of fluids is incorrect as it does not help in managing the urge. In summary, choice B is correct as it reassures the client and helps maintain the integrity of the test.
Question 3 of 5
A client with ulcerative colitis, who experiences severe diarrhea, is prescribed a cleansing enema to relieve the symptoms. Which of the following interventions should the nurse consider at this stage?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Question the physician about the use of the cleansing enema. In this scenario, the nurse should question the physician because administering a cleansing enema to a client with ulcerative colitis and severe diarrhea can potentially exacerbate the condition. The nurse needs to verify if the enema is the appropriate intervention and if there are alternative treatments that may be safer and more effective. Summary: - Choice B: Educating the client about the procedure does not address the potential risks of administering the enema. - Choice C: Positioning the client comfortably is important but does not address the appropriateness of the enema. - Choice D: Instructing the client to visit the toilet before the enema does not address the potential risks associated with the procedure.
Question 4 of 5
Why should a nurse instruct a client with an ileostomy to avoid enteric-coated products?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because enteric-coated products are designed to bypass the stomach and dissolve in the small intestine, where absorption of medications occurs. Since an ileostomy bypasses the large intestine, the medication in enteric-coated products may not be fully absorbed, leading to reduced effectiveness. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because they do not directly relate to the specific issue of absorption in the context of an ileostomy.
Question 5 of 5
Which statement accurately describes vitamin deficiencies?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because surgery on the gastrointestinal (GI) tract can impair the absorption of essential vitamins leading to deficiencies. This is due to the fact that many vitamins are absorbed in the GI tract, and any alteration or removal of parts of the tract can hinder this process. For example, surgeries like gastric bypass can reduce the absorption of certain vitamins such as B12. Choice A is incorrect because vegan diets can be deficient in various nutrients, not just vitamin B6 and folic acid. Choice B is incorrect because vitamin imbalances are not solely due to excessive fat intake but can also be caused by various factors. Choice D is incorrect because while skin disorders can be a symptom of vitamin deficiencies, they are not the most common clinical manifestation in adults.