ATI RN
Gastrointestinal System Nursing Exam Questions Questions
Question 1 of 5
Vasopressin (Pitressin) therapy is prescribed for a client with a diagnosis of bleeding esophageal varices. The nurse is preparing to administer the medication to the client. Which of the following essential items is needed during the administration of this medication?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The major action of vasopressin is constriction of the splanchnic blood flow. Continuous electrocardiogram and blood pressure monitoring are essential because of the constrictive effects of the medication on the coronary arteries. Options 2, 3, and 4 are not essential items required during the administration of this medication.
Question 2 of 5
A client has been diagnosed with gastroesophageal reflux disease. The nurse interprets that the client has dysfunction of which of the following parts of the digestive system?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The lower esophageal sphincter is a functional sphincter that normally remains closed except when food or fluids are swallowed. If relaxation of this sphincter occurs, the client could experience symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease.
Question 3 of 5
The nurse is irrigating a client's colostomy when she complains of abdominal cramping after receiving about 100 mL of the irrigating solution. What should the nurse's first response be in this situation?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The abdominal cramping that can occur during colostomy irrigation results from stimulation of the colon by the irrigating solution. The nurse's first response should be to temporarily stop the flow of solution to allow the cramping to subside. Repositioning the client to the right side will not alleviate the cramping. Removing the tube will not decrease the cramping and will necessitate reinsertion of the tube when the irrigation is resumed. Massaging the abdomen gently may be soothing to some clients, but it is not the nurse's first priority action.
Question 4 of 5
A nurse is caring for a client who has just returned from the operating room following the creation of a colostomy. The nurse is assessing the drainage in the pouch attached to the site where the colostomy was formed and notes serosanguineous drainage. Which nursing action is most appropriate based on this assessment?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: During the first 24 to 72 hours following surgery, mucus and serosanguineous drainage are expected from the stoma. Documenting the amount and characteristics of the drainage is appropriate. The nurse does not need to notify the physician because this is an expected finding. Applying ice or pressure to the site is not necessary.
Question 5 of 5
Which of the following nursing measures would be inappropriate when caring for a client with a Cantor tube?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Intestinal tubes are not irrigated. Injecting air into the tube, applying water-soluble lubricant, and coiling extra tubing are appropriate nursing measures.
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