NCLEX-PN
NCLEX Questions Gastrointestinal System Questions
Extract:
Question 1 of 5
A client with cirrhosis is about to have a paracentesis for relief of ascites. Which activity is essential prior to the procedure?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Emptying the bladder prevents accidental puncture during paracentesis, which involves inserting a needle into the abdominal cavity.
Question 2 of 5
The client receiving antibiotic therapy complains of white, cheesy plaques in the mouth. Which intervention should the nurse implement?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: White, cheesy plaques suggest oral candidiasis, a common side effect of antibiotics. Notifying the HCP for an antifungal medication is the most appropriate intervention. The patches won’t resolve naturally, hydrogen peroxide is not standard, and verbalizing feelings is secondary.
Question 3 of 5
Which data should the nurse expect to assess in the client who had an upper gastrointestinal (UGI) series?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: A UGI series uses barium, which can cause chalky white stools as it is excreted. Heart rate, abdominal firmness, and bowel sounds are not typically affected.
Question 4 of 5
The nurse is caring for a client diagnosed with GERD. Which nursing interventions should be implemented?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Elevating the head of the bed prevents reflux during sleep, and lifestyle modifications (e.g., avoiding trigger foods, not lying down after meals) are key to managing GERD. Prone positioning worsens reflux, remaining upright at all times is impractical, and right lateral positioning is less effective than head elevation.
Question 5 of 5
The nurse is preparing to administer amitriptyline 10 mg orally to the client diagnosed with IBS. The client asks, “Why am I receiving this? I don’t feel depressed.” Which response by the nurse is best?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: A. Not all clients with chronic diseases suffer from depression. The response does not address the primary reason for the use of a TCA such as amitriptyline (Elavil) in IBS. B. A common response to TCAs is sedation; however, this medication is not given for this reason. C. TCAs do have anticholinergic side effects and can cause (not prevent) constipation. Clients with IBS can have constipation or diarrhea. D. Evidence supports that TCAs can reduce abdominal pain, and this benefit is unrelated to whether or not the client is being treated for depression.