ATI RN
Gastrointestinal System Nursing Exam Questions Questions
Question 1 of 5
What may occur with failure of the sodium-potassium pump during severe protein depletion?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B) Hyperkalemia. In severe protein depletion, failure of the sodium-potassium pump can lead to the accumulation of potassium inside the cell, resulting in hyperkalemia. The sodium-potassium pump is crucial for maintaining the balance of these electrolytes in the body. Option A) Ascites is the abnormal accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity and is typically associated with liver disease or heart failure, not directly related to the sodium-potassium pump failure in severe protein depletion. Option C) Anemia is a condition characterized by a deficiency of red blood cells or hemoglobin, which can be caused by various factors such as nutritional deficiencies, chronic diseases, or blood loss. It is not directly linked to the failure of the sodium-potassium pump. Option D) Hypoalbuminemia refers to low levels of albumin in the blood, which can occur in conditions like liver disease, malnutrition, or kidney disease. While severe protein depletion can lead to hypoalbuminemia, it is not a direct result of sodium-potassium pump failure. Educationally, understanding the role of the sodium-potassium pump in maintaining electrolyte balance is essential for nursing practice, especially in conditions like severe protein depletion where electrolyte imbalances can have serious consequences on the body's functioning. Hyperkalemia, in this case, can lead to cardiac arrhythmias and other critical complications, highlighting the importance of this knowledge for patient care.
Question 2 of 5
Nursing management of the patient with chronic gastritis includes teaching the patient to
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: In the nursing management of a patient with chronic gastritis, it is crucial to provide education that supports the healing and management of the condition. The correct answer, option B, instructs the patient to maintain a nonirritating diet with six small meals a day. This recommendation helps in reducing the workload on the digestive system, minimizes irritation to the inflamed gastric mucosa, and ensures a steady intake of nutrients without overwhelming the stomach. Option A, taking antacids before meals to decrease stomach acidity, is not the best choice for chronic gastritis because it only addresses the symptom of high acidity temporarily without addressing the underlying inflammation. It may also disrupt the normal acid balance in the stomach. Option C, eliminating alcohol and caffeine from the diet when symptoms occur, is limiting as it focuses on managing symptoms reactively rather than providing a proactive approach to managing the condition long-term through dietary modifications. Option D, using NSAIDs instead of aspirin for minor pain relief, is contraindicated in chronic gastritis as NSAIDs can further irritate the stomach lining and exacerbate the inflammation, potentially leading to more severe complications. Educationally, it is important to emphasize to nursing students that patient education in chronic gastritis should focus on dietary modifications, stress reduction techniques, avoiding irritants, and compliance with prescribed medications to effectively manage symptoms and prevent complications. By understanding the rationale behind each option, nurses can provide evidence-based care that promotes optimal patient outcomes in chronic gastritis management.
Question 3 of 5
Which method is preferred for immediate treatment of an acute episode of constipation?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: In the context of an acute episode of constipation, the preferred method for immediate treatment is option A) An enema. Enemas work quickly by introducing fluid into the rectum to soften and lubricate the stool, facilitating its passage. This method provides rapid relief and is particularly useful in cases where prompt action is needed to alleviate discomfort and prevent complications like fecal impaction. Stool softeners (option B) work more gradually by drawing water into the stool, and while they are helpful for preventing constipation, they are not as effective for immediate relief during an acute episode. Increased fluid intake (option C) is crucial for overall bowel health and can help prevent constipation, but it may not provide immediate relief during an acute episode. Bulk-forming medications (option D) are typically used for long-term management of constipation by adding fiber to the diet, but they are not ideal for immediate treatment of an acute episode. In an educational context, understanding the appropriate interventions for constipation is vital for nursing professionals caring for patients with gastrointestinal issues. Recognizing the differences between treatment options and their respective roles in managing constipation can help nurses provide timely and effective care, promoting patient comfort and well-being.
Question 4 of 5
When a patient returns to the clinical unit after an abdominal-perineal resection (APR), what should the nurse expect?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is D) A perineal wound, drains, and a stoma. Rationale: After an abdominal-perineal resection (APR), the patient typically has a perineal wound, drains to manage wound drainage, and a stoma created to divert fecal matter. The perineal wound is a result of the surgical removal of the rectum and anus. Drains are necessary to remove excess fluid and prevent infection at the surgical site. The stoma is created to allow fecal matter to exit the body since the rectum has been removed. Option A) An abdominal dressing is incorrect because the surgery involves the perineal area, not just the abdomen. Option B) An abdominal wound and drains are incorrect as the surgery involves the perineum and rectal area. Option C) A temporary colostomy and drains are incorrect as a permanent colostomy is usually created in an APR procedure, not a temporary one. Educational Context: Understanding the post-operative care following an abdominal-perineal resection is crucial for nurses caring for these patients. Proper wound care, management of drains, and stoma care are essential components of nursing care in this situation. Nurses should be knowledgeable about the specific needs of patients undergoing APR to provide safe and effective care during their recovery.
Question 5 of 5
Serologic findings in viral hepatitis include both the presence of viral antigens and antibodies produced in response to the viruses. What laboratory result indicates that the nurse is immune to HBV after vaccination?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C) Surface antibody Anti-HBs. This laboratory result indicates immunity to HBV after vaccination because the presence of Anti-HBs indicates that the individual has developed antibodies against the surface antigen of the hepatitis B virus, which confers immunity. Option A) Anti-HBcIgG is incorrect because it indicates past infection, not immunity from vaccination. Option B) Surface antigen HBsAg indicates active infection, not immunity. Option D) Core antigen Anti-HBcIgM indicates acute infection, not immunity. In an educational context, understanding serologic findings in viral hepatitis is crucial for nurses caring for patients with hepatitis infections. Knowing which laboratory results indicate immunity post-vaccination helps nurses assess the effectiveness of vaccination programs and provide appropriate care and education to patients at risk for hepatitis infections.