ATI RN
Gastrointestinal System Nursing Exam Questions Questions
Question 1 of 5
Which of the following expected outcomes would be most appropriate for a client with peptic ulcer disease? The client will:
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: verbalize absence of epigastric pain. This outcome is most appropriate as it directly relates to the client's condition of peptic ulcer disease. Verbalizing the absence of epigastric pain indicates that the client's ulcer is healing and symptoms are improving. It is a measurable and specific goal that reflects the client's progress in managing the disease. Choice B is incorrect as vitamin B12 injections are not typically necessary for peptic ulcer disease. Choice C is incorrect as exercise may not directly impact the ulcer and may even exacerbate symptoms. Choice D is incorrect as eliminating stress completely is unrealistic and may not directly impact the ulcer.
Question 2 of 5
After gastric resection surgery, which of the following signs and symptoms would alert the nurse to the development of a leaking anastomosis?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Rationale for choice A: Pain, fever, and abdominal rigidity are classic signs of a leaking anastomosis after gastric resection surgery. Pain indicates inflammation, fever suggests infection, and abdominal rigidity points to peritonitis. These symptoms are indicative of a surgical complication that requires immediate attention to prevent further complications like sepsis. Summary of other choices: B: Diarrhea with fat in the stool is more indicative of malabsorption issues, such as pancreatic insufficiency, rather than a leaking anastomosis. C: Palpitations, pallor, and diaphoresis after eating are more suggestive of cardiovascular issues or anxiety rather than a leaking anastomosis. D: Feelings of fullness and nausea after eating are common postoperative symptoms and do not specifically indicate a leaking anastomosis.
Question 3 of 5
A home care nurse is visiting a client with a diagnosis of pernicious anemia that developed as a result of gastric surgery. The nurse instructs the client that because the stomach lining produces a decreased amount of intrinsic factor in this disorder, the client will need
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Vitamin B12 injections. Pernicious anemia results from a lack of intrinsic factor, which is necessary for the absorption of vitamin B12 in the intestines. Therefore, the client with this disorder will need vitamin B12 injections to bypass the need for intrinsic factor. Choice B (Vitamin B6 injections) is incorrect because pernicious anemia specifically involves a deficiency in vitamin B12, not B6. Choice C (An antibiotic) is incorrect as antibiotics are not indicated for pernicious anemia. Choice D (An antacid) is also incorrect as it does not address the underlying issue of vitamin B12 deficiency caused by the lack of intrinsic factor.
Question 4 of 5
The nurse assesses the client's understanding of the relationship between body position and gastroesophageal reflux. Which response would indicate that the client understands measures to avoid problems with reflux while sleeping?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: "I can elevate the head of the bed 4 to 6 inches." Elevating the head of the bed helps to prevent gastroesophageal reflux by promoting gravity to keep stomach acid from moving back into the esophagus. This position helps to keep the stomach contents in place and reduces the likelihood of reflux during sleep. Choice A is incorrect because elevating the foot of the bed would not be effective in preventing reflux; it may even exacerbate the issue. Choice B is incorrect as sleeping on the stomach can increase pressure on the stomach and worsen reflux. Choice C is also incorrect as sleeping on the back without a pillow under the head may not provide the necessary elevation to prevent reflux effectively.
Question 5 of 5
A client with ulcerative colitis is diagnosed with a mild case of the disease. The nurse doing dietary teaching gives the client examples of foods to eat that represent which of the following therapeutic diets?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Low-roughage without milk. In mild cases of ulcerative colitis, a low-roughage diet is recommended to reduce irritation to the colon. Roughage can exacerbate symptoms. Avoiding milk is also common as lactose intolerance may develop. High-fat (A) and high-protein (B) diets can be difficult to digest and may worsen symptoms. Low-roughage with milk (D) is incorrect as milk can irritate the colon in some individuals with ulcerative colitis.