ATI RN
Gastrointestinal System Nursing Exam Questions Questions
Question 1 of 5
When preparing the client with hepatitis A for extended convalescence, the nurse teaches the client about problems that may occur. The nurse knows that the client has understood the teaching when he says that he is most likely to have difficulty:
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Maintaining a positive, optimistic outlook. This is because having a positive mindset can help the client cope better with the challenges of extended convalescence. It can improve overall well-being, mental health, and motivation for recovery. A: Controlling abdominal pain - While abdominal pain may be a symptom of hepatitis A, it is not the most crucial aspect for extended convalescence. B: Maintaining a regular bowel elimination pattern - While important for overall health, this is not specifically related to complications from hepatitis A. C: Preventing respiratory complications - While respiratory complications can occur in severe cases of hepatitis A, it is not the most likely difficulty the client will face during extended convalescence.
Question 2 of 5
The nurse is caring for a client admitted to the hospital with a suspected diagnosis of acute appendicitis. Which of the following laboratory results would the nurse expect to note if the client indeed has appendicitis?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Leukocytosis with a shift to the left. In acute appendicitis, the body responds with an increase in white blood cells (leukocytosis) as a sign of infection. A shift to the left indicates an increase in immature neutrophils, which is a common response to acute bacterial infections like appendicitis. Leukopenia (choices A and D) would not be expected in appendicitis. Leukopenia is a decrease in white blood cells, which is not typical in an acute infection like appendicitis. Leukocytosis with a shift to the right (choice B) could be seen in chronic infections or conditions like leukemia, not in acute appendicitis where a shift to the left is more common due to the rapid response to infection.
Question 3 of 5
To prevent gastroesophageal reflux in a client with hiatal hernia, the nurse should provide which discharge instructions?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Avoid coffee and alcoholic beverages. This is because both coffee and alcohol can relax the lower esophageal sphincter, leading to increased risk of gastroesophageal reflux in clients with hiatal hernia. A: Lying down after meals can actually worsen reflux symptoms by allowing stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus. C: Taking antacids before meals may provide temporary relief but does not address the underlying cause of reflux. D: Limiting fluids with meals can help reduce reflux by not distending the stomach, but it is not as crucial as avoiding coffee and alcohol.
Question 4 of 5
Which of the following activities should the nurse encourage the client with a peptic ulcer to avoid?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Smoking cigarettes. Smoking can increase stomach acid production and decrease blood flow to the stomach lining, which can worsen peptic ulcers. Chewing gum can actually help by increasing saliva production, which can neutralize stomach acid. Eating chocolate and taking acetaminophen are generally safe for peptic ulcer patients as long as they do not have specific allergies or sensitivities.
Question 5 of 5
A client returns from surgery with a sigmoid colostomy. An ostomy appliance is attached. The priority nursing diagnosis for daily observation and care is:
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Impaired skin integrity related to seepage. This is the priority nursing diagnosis because a colostomy appliance can lead to skin breakdown due to seepage of stool, which can cause irritation and skin breakdown. Maintaining skin integrity is crucial to prevent infection and promote healing. A: Diarrhea is not the priority as it is a common issue after colostomy surgery but can be managed with appropriate interventions. C: Impaired nutrition is not the priority as it is not specifically related to the immediate care of the colostomy appliance. D: Impaired physical mobility is not the priority as it is not directly related to the immediate care of the colostomy appliance. In summary, choice B is the correct answer because maintaining skin integrity is essential for the client's well-being and to prevent complications associated with a colostomy appliance.