NCLEX-PN
NCLEX Gastrointestinal Questions
Extract:
Question 1 of 5
The nurse is caring for clients on a medical unit. Which client information should be brought to the attention of the HCP immediately?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Hyponatremia (sodium 128 mEq/L) in obstipation risks neurological complications, requiring immediate HCP attention. Formed stools, normal potassium, and moderate diarrhea are less urgent.
Question 2 of 5
The nurse is caring for clients on a surgical unit. Which client should the nurse assess first?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Sudden resolution of abdominal pain may indicate perforation (e.g., appendicitis), a life-threatening emergency requiring immediate assessment. Urinary retention, absent bowel sounds, and discharge are less urgent.
Question 3 of 5
The client is diagnosed with an acute exacerbation of IBD. Which priority intervention should the nurse implement?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Recording stool frequency, amount, and color is critical in acute IBD exacerbation to assess disease activity and guide treatment. Weight and fluid monitoring are important but secondary, and teaching is less urgent during an acute phase.
Question 4 of 5
The client asks how he contracted hepatitis A. He reports all of the following. Which one is most likely related to hepatitis A?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Hepatitis A is transmitted via the fecal-oral route, often through contaminated food like oysters. Oysters from unsafe waters are a common source.
Question 5 of 5
The 85-year-old male client diagnosed with cancer of the colon asks the nurse, 'Why did I get this cancer?' Which statement is the nurse's best response?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Low dietary fiber is a known risk factor for colon cancer, as it slows bowel transit and increases exposure to carcinogens. Colon cancer is common in older adults, not younger ones, and gender differences are minimal.