ATI RN
Gastrointestinal Exam Questions Questions
Question 1 of 5
What is the main underlying risk factor for metabolic syndrome?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The main underlying risk factor for metabolic syndrome is insulin resistance (Choice C). Insulin resistance is a condition where the cells in the body do not respond effectively to insulin, leading to high blood sugar levels. This is a key feature of metabolic syndrome, which includes a cluster of conditions such as high blood pressure, high blood sugar, excess body fat around the waist, and abnormal cholesterol levels. Insulin resistance plays a central role in the development of metabolic syndrome by promoting inflammation, dyslipidemia, and cardiovascular complications. The other choices, Age (A), Heart disease (B), and High cholesterol levels (D), while they may be associated with metabolic syndrome, are not the main underlying risk factor. Age is a risk factor for many health conditions, heart disease is a potential consequence of metabolic syndrome, and high cholesterol levels are a component of metabolic syndrome but not the primary underlying risk factor.
Question 2 of 5
Priority Decision: When caring for a patient with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), what is most important for the nurse to do?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Rationale: 1. Building a trusting relationship is crucial for patients with IBS to provide emotional support. 2. Trust enables effective communication and understanding of the patient's symptoms. 3. Trust fosters adherence to treatment plans and promotes better outcomes. 4. Symptomatic care helps manage IBS symptoms and improve the patient's quality of life. Summary: - Choice A is incorrect because IBS is a real medical condition, not just psychogenic. - Choice C is incorrect as fiber intake may worsen symptoms for some IBS patients. - Choice D is incorrect because medication effectiveness varies, and not all patients may benefit.
Question 3 of 5
The nurse plans teaching for the patient with a colostomy but the patient refuses to look at the nurse or the stoma, stating, 'I just can't see myself with this thing.' What is the best nursing intervention for this patient?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Encourage the patient to share concerns and ask questions. This option promotes therapeutic communication and allows the patient to express their fears and anxieties, which can help in addressing their concerns and building trust. By encouraging the patient to share their feelings, the nurse can provide emotional support and offer appropriate education tailored to the patient's needs. This approach empowers the patient to take an active role in their care and decision-making process. Summary: - Option B (Refer the patient to a chaplain): While spiritual support can be beneficial, in this case, the patient's immediate need is to address their concerns about the colostomy. - Option C (Explain that there is nothing the patient can do about it): This response is dismissive and not empowering for the patient, undermining their ability to cope effectively. - Option D (Tell the patient that learning about it will prevent issues): While education is important, forcing information on the patient without addressing their emotional needs may result in
Question 4 of 5
During the incubation period of viral hepatitis, what should the nurse expect the patient to report?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Anorexia and right upper quadrant discomfort. During the incubation period of viral hepatitis, the virus is replicating in the liver without causing noticeable symptoms. Anorexia and right upper quadrant discomfort are common early symptoms due to liver inflammation. Pruritus and malaise (Choice A) typically occur during the symptomatic phase. Dark urine and easy fatigability (Choice B) are more indicative of liver damage during the acute phase. Constipation or diarrhea with light-colored stools (Choice D) are not specific to the incubation period of viral hepatitis.
Question 5 of 5
A patient is hospitalized with metastatic cancer of the liver. The nurse plans care for the patient based on what knowledge?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because patients with metastatic cancer of the liver typically have advanced disease and poor prognosis. Supportive care focuses on managing symptoms, providing comfort, and improving quality of life. Chemotherapy (choice A) may be used, but it is often palliative rather than curative. Surgery (choice B) is usually not an option for metastatic liver cancer. Choice D is incorrect as metastatic cancer is more difficult to treat compared to primary liver cancer. Therefore, choice C is the most appropriate plan of care for this patient.