ATI RN
Gastrointestinal Practice Questions Questions
Question 1 of 5
Which of these is a function of the large intestine?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: water absorption. The large intestine's main function is to absorb water and electrolytes from the indigestible food residue that enters it from the small intestine. This process helps in the formation of solid feces. Nutrient absorption primarily occurs in the small intestine (A). Bile production is done by the liver and stored in the gallbladder, not in the large intestine (B). Enzyme secretion primarily occurs in the small intestine and other digestive organs, not in the large intestine (D). Therefore, C is the correct answer as it aligns with the main function of the large intestine.
Question 2 of 5
A nurse is interviewing a client who has acute pancreatitis. Which of the following factors should the nurse anticipate finding in the client's history?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Gallstones. Acute pancreatitis is commonly caused by gallstones or alcohol consumption. Gallstones can block the pancreatic duct, leading to inflammation. Hypolipidemia, COPD, and diabetes mellitus are not directly associated with pancreatitis. This history finding helps the nurse identify the potential cause and plan appropriate care.
Question 3 of 5
To prevent gastroesophageal reflux in a male client with a hiatal hernia, the nurse should provide which of the following 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 likelihood of gastroesophageal reflux. A: "Lie down after meals" can worsen reflux symptoms as gravity helps keep stomach contents down. C: "Take antacids with meals" may provide temporary relief but does not address the underlying cause of reflux. D: "Limit fluid intake with meals" can help reduce bloating but has no direct impact on preventing reflux.
Question 4 of 5
The tunica muscularis in the superior esophagus is made up of ______ muscle.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: skeletal muscle. The superior esophagus contains skeletal muscle in its tunica muscularis, allowing for voluntary control over swallowing. Cardiac muscle is found in the heart, not in the esophagus. Smooth muscle is present in the lower esophagus for involuntary movements. Choice D is incorrect as the superior esophagus does not contain a mix of smooth and skeletal muscle.
Question 5 of 5
The projection from the posterior edge of the soft palate elevates and helps close off the nasopharynx when swallowing. The projection is called the
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: uvula. The uvula is a teardrop-shaped projection from the posterior edge of the soft palate that elevates during swallowing to help close off the nasopharynx, preventing food or liquids from entering the nasal cavity. The uvula's contraction is essential for proper swallowing function. A: Buccal fat pad - located in the cheek area, not involved in swallowing or closing off the nasopharynx. B: Epiglottis - a flap of tissue that covers the trachea during swallowing to prevent food from entering the airway, not related to closing off the nasopharynx. D: Palatine tonsil - located on the sides of the throat, important for immune function but not directly involved in swallowing or closing off the nasopharynx.