NCLEX-PN
NCLEX Questions Gastrointestinal System Questions
Extract:
Question 1 of 5
Which diagnostic data should be reported to the health-care provider (HCP) immediately?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: A pH of 7.11 indicates severe acidosis (likely DKA in type 1 diabetes), requiring immediate HCP notification. Normal electrolytes, post-transfusion anemia, and COPD oximetry are less urgent.
Question 2 of 5
The client diagnosed with inflammatory bowel disease has a serum potassium level of 3.4 mEq/L. Which action should the nurse implement first?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: A potassium level of 3.4 mEq/L is slightly low, warranting assessment for symptoms like muscle weakness, which could indicate hypokalemia severity. Notification or intervention would follow based on clinical findings, but assessment is the first step.
Question 3 of 5
The nurse is completing a home visit with the client who had a partial resection of the ileum for Crohn’s disease 4 weeks previously. The nurse should collect additional information when the client makes which statement?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: A. The nurse should collect additional information when the client states having stools that float and have fat in them. Bile salts are absorbed in the terminal ileum. Disease in this area or resection of the ileum can result in poor fat absorption and loss of fat in the stool. The presence of bile salts leads to diarrhea. B. Weight gain is a positive sign after small bowel resection for Crohn’s disease. C. Many clients with Crohn’s disease develop lactose intolerance and therefore should avoid milk products. D. Formed stools are a positive sign after small bowel resection for Crohn’s disease.
Question 4 of 5
Which statement made by the client indicates to the nurse the client may be experiencing GERD?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Frequent use of antacids suggests ongoing heartburn or reflux symptoms, a hallmark of GERD. Chest pain with exertion is more suggestive of cardiac issues, snoring may indicate sleep apnea, and soft drink consumption is a risk factor but not a direct symptom.
Question 5 of 5
The nurse is caring for clients in an outpatient clinic. Which information should the nurse teach regarding the American Cancer Society's recommendations for the early detection of colon cancer?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The American Cancer Society recommends a colonoscopy starting at age 45–50, then every 5–10 years for average-risk individuals, as it effectively detects polyps and cancer. Other options are outdated or incorrect.