NCLEX-PN
NCLEX Gastrointestinal Questions
Extract:
Question 1 of 5
The nurse is caring for the client who has a temporary colostomy following surgery for colon cancer. The nurse assesses that the client’s colostomy bag is empty and that there has been no stool since surgery 24 hours ago. What should the nurse do?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The nurse should document the findings; the absence of stool is expected 24 hours postsurgery.
Question 2 of 5
The nurse is preparing to administer the initial dose of an aminoglycoside antibiotic to the client diagnosed with acute diverticulitis. Which intervention should the nurse implement?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Checking for drug allergies before administering an aminoglycoside prevents allergic reactions, a critical safety step. Trough and peak levels are monitored later, and vital signs are routine but not specific to the initial dose.
Question 3 of 5
The client diagnosed with ulcerative colitis is prescribed a low-residue diet. Which meal selection indicates the client understands the diet teaching?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: A low-residue diet minimizes fiber to reduce bowel irritation, so roast pork, white rice, and plain custard (low-fiber foods) are appropriate. The other options include high-fiber foods like wheat, vegetables, and whole grains, which are contraindicated.
Question 4 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 5 of 5
Which problems should the nurse include in the plan of care for the client diagnosed with peptic ulcer disease to observe for physiological complications?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Peptic ulcer disease can lead to complications like bleeding or perforation, which alter bowel elimination patterns (e.g., melena or hematochezia). Knowledge deficits and coping issues are psychosocial, and gastric emptying is less commonly affected.