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. A client had an abdominal perineal resection with a colostomy 4 days ago and is ready for discharge. Which of the following would be an appropriate expected outcome at this point?
- A. The client maintains a high-fiber diet.
- B. The client discusses concerns about his sexual functioning.
- C. The client maintains bedrest.
- D. The client limits fluid intake to 1000 ml/day.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Clients often have concerns about their sexuality after a fecal diversion. The nurse should encourage the client to discuss any questions about sexual functioning. The client will not need to maintain a high-fiber diet but will be encouraged to avoid any foods that cause odor and flatulence. The client should be able to ambulate and sit out of bed for several hours at a time at this point. Fluid intake will be encouraged, not restricted.
3. A client is suspected of having hepatitis. Which diagnostic test results will assist in confirming this diagnosis?
- A. Decreased erythrocyte sedimentation rate
- B. Elevated serum bilirubin
- C. Elevated hemoglobin
- D. Elevated blood urea nitrogen
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Laboratory indicators of hepatitis include elevated liver enzyme levels, elevated serum bilirubin levels, elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rates, and leucopenia. An elevated blood urea nitrogen may indicate renal dysfunction. A hemoglobin level is unrelated to this diagnosis.
4. A nurse is developing a teaching plan for the client with viral hepatitis. The nurse plans to tell the client which of the following in the teaching session?
- A. Activity should be limited to prevent fatigue
- B. The diet should be low in calories
- C. Meals should be large to conserve energy
- D. Alcohol intake should be limited to 2 oz. per day.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The client with viral hepatitis should limit activity to avoid fatigue during the recuperation period. The diet should be optimal in calories, proteins, and carbohydrates. The client should take in several small meals per day. Alcohol is strictly forbidden.
5. A client with ulcerative colitis has an order to begin salicylate medication to reduce inflammation. The nurse instructs the client to take the medication:
- A. 30 minutes before meals
- B. On an empty stomach
- C. After meals
- D. On arising
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: After meals. Salicylate medications for ulcerative colitis should be taken after meals to minimize gastrointestinal irritation and enhance absorption. Taking the medication on an empty stomach (Choice B) may increase the risk of gastrointestinal side effects. Taking it 30 minutes before meals (Choice A) may not provide enough protection for the stomach lining. Taking it on arising (Choice D) is not recommended as it may not coincide with the peak absorption times of the medication.
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