Which of the following definitions best describes gastritis?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: 'Inflammation of the gastric mucosa.' Gastritis is characterized by inflammation of the stomach lining, specifically the gastric mucosa. This inflammation can be caused by various factors such as infections, medications, alcohol, or autoimmune diseases. Choice A, 'Erosion of the gastric mucosa,' is incorrect because erosion refers to the wearing away of tissue rather than inflammation. Choice B, 'Inflammation of a diverticulum,' is incorrect because gastritis specifically involves inflammation of the stomach lining, not a diverticulum. Choice D, 'Reflux of stomach acid into the esophagus,' describes gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), which is different from gastritis.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'A noninflamed outpouching of the intestine.' Diverticulosis refers to the presence of small, bulging pouches (diverticula) that can form in the lining of the digestive system, especially the colon. These pouches are typically noninflamed. Choice A is incorrect because it describes diverticulitis, which is the inflammation of these pouches. Choice C is incorrect as it defines bowel obstruction, not diverticulosis. Choice D is incorrect as it refers to a hernia, not diverticulosis.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: A low-fiber diet is implicated in the development of diverticulosis because it leads to harder stools and increased pressure in the colon. The lack of fiber results in decreased bulk and slower transit time, predisposing individuals to constipation and the formation of diverticula. High-fiber diets, on the other hand, promote regular bowel movements and help prevent diverticular disease. High-protein and low-carbohydrate diets do not have a direct association with diverticulosis.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. Undigested food blocking the diverticulum can lead to bacterial invasion, causing inflammation and turning diverticulosis into diverticulitis. Choices A, B, and C do not directly facilitate the development of diverticulitis. Choice A involves a different mechanism related to laxative use, choice B describes a complication of chronic constipation but does not necessarily lead to diverticulitis, and choice C refers to a different condition involving herniation of the intestinal mucosa.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In the context of diverticulosis, the correct answer is A) No symptoms exist. Diverticulosis is often asymptomatic, especially in its early stages. Diverticula are small pouches that can form in the wall of the colon, and in many cases, individuals may not experience any noticeable symptoms. This is crucial to understand as many people with diverticulosis may remain unaware of their condition unless complications arise. Option B) Change in bowel habits is more indicative of conditions like irritable bowel syndrome or inflammatory bowel disease rather than diverticulosis. Option C) Anorexia with low-grade fever is more suggestive of an infectious process or inflammatory condition rather than diverticulosis. Option D) Episodic, dull, or steady midabdominal pain is more commonly associated with conditions like peptic ulcer disease or gastritis rather than diverticulosis. Educationally, it is important for nursing students to grasp the concept that not all gastrointestinal conditions present with overt symptoms. Understanding the typical presentation of diverticulosis, or lack thereof, aids in early detection and prevention of complications. Nurses must be able to differentiate between various gastrointestinal disorders based on their unique symptomatology to provide effective care and education to patients.