ATI RN
Gastrointestinal System Nursing Exam Questions
1. A client is scheduled for an abdominal perineal resection with permanent colostomy. Which of the following measures would most likely be included in the plan for the client's preoperative preparation?
- A. Keep the client NPO for 2 days before surgery.
- B. Administer kanamycin (Kantrex) the night before surgery.
- C. Inform the client that chest tubes will be in place after surgery.
- D. Advise the client to limit activity.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Antibiotics are administered preoperatively to reduce the bacterial count in the colon. The client will be placed on a low residue diet to help cleanse the bowel before surgery but typically is not placed on NPO status until 8 to 12 hours before surgery. Laxatives and enemas may also be administered. Chest tubes would not be expected postoperatively. There is no need to limit the client's activity before surgery.
2. Janice is waiting for discharge instructions after her herniorrhaphy. Which of the following instructions do you include?
- A. Eat a low-fiber diet.
- B. Resume heavy lifting in 2 weeks.
- C. Lose weight, if obese.
- D. Resume sexual activity once discomfort is gone.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Advise the patient to lose weight if obese to reduce the risk of complications after herniorrhaphy.
3. Which of the following tests can be used to diagnose ulcers?
- A. Abdominal x-ray
- B. Barium swallow
- C. Computed tomography (CT) scan
- D. Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD)
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) is a diagnostic test that involves visualizing the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum to diagnose ulcers.
4. The nurse is preparing a discharge teaching plan for the client who had an umbilical hernia repair. Which of the following would the nurse include in the plan?
- A. Restricting pain medication
- B. Maintaining bedrest
- C. Avoiding coughing
- D. Irrigating the drain
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Bedrest is not required following this surgical procedure. The client should take analgesics as needed and as prescribed to control pain. A drain is not used in this surgical procedure, although the client may be instructed in simple dressing changes. Coughing is avoided to prevent disruption of the tissue integrity, which can occur because of the location of this surgical procedure.
5. A client with viral hepatitis is discussing with the nurse the need to avoid alcohol and states, 'I’m not sure I can avoid alcohol.' The most appropriate response is
- A. Everything will be alright.
- B. I think you should talk more with the doctor about this.
- C. I don’t believe that.
- D. I’m not sure that I don’t understand. Would you please explain?
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The most appropriate response in this situation is to seek clarification from the client by saying, 'I’m not sure that I don’t understand. Would you please explain?' This response shows empathy and a willingness to listen, encouraging the client to elaborate on their concerns. False reassurance (Choice A) is not helpful as it dismisses the client's feelings. Suggesting to talk more with the doctor (Choice B) may deflect from addressing the client's immediate concerns. Expressing disbelief (Choice C) can create a barrier to open communication, making the client feel unsupported.
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