ATI RN
Gastrointestinal System Nursing Exam Questions
1. 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.
2. The nurse is irrigating a client's colostomy when she complains of abdominal cramping after receiving about 100 mL of the irrigating solution. What should the nurse's first response be in this situation?
- A. Stop the flow of solution temporarily.
- B. Reposition the client on to her right side.
- C. Remove the irrigation tube.
- D. Massage the abdomen gently.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The abdominal cramping that can occur during colostomy irrigation results from stimulation of the colon by the irrigating solution. The nurse's first response should be to temporarily stop the flow of solution to allow the cramping to subside. Repositioning the client to the right side will not alleviate the cramping. Removing the tube will not decrease the cramping and will necessitate reinsertion of the tube when the irrigation is resumed. Massaging the abdomen gently may be soothing to some clients, but it is not the nurse's first priority action.
3. Which of the following types of diets is implicated in the development of diverticulosis?
- A. Low-fiber diet
- B. High-fiber diet
- C. High-protein diet
- D. Low-carbohydrate diet
Correct answer: A
Rationale: A low-fiber diet is implicated in the development of diverticulosis because it leads to harder stools and increased pressure in the colon. The lack of fiber results in decreased bulk and slower transit time, predisposing individuals to constipation and the formation of diverticula. High-fiber diets, on the other hand, promote regular bowel movements and help prevent diverticular disease. High-protein and low-carbohydrate diets do not have a direct association with diverticulosis.
4. A client with which of the following conditions may be likely to develop rectal cancer?
- A. Adenomatous polyps
- B. Diverticulitis
- C. Hemorrhoids
- D. Peptic ulcer disease
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Adenomatous polyps are a known risk factor for the development of rectal cancer.
5. The nurse is caring for a client following a Billroth II procedure. On review of the postoperative orders, which of the following if prescribed, should the nurse question and verify?
- A. Irrigating the nasogastric tube
- B. Coughing and deep breathing exercises
- C. Leg exercises
- D. Early ambulation
Correct answer: A
Rationale: In a Billroth II procedure the proximal remnant of the stomach is anastomosed to the proximal jejunum. Patency of the nasogastric tube is critical for preventing the retention of gastric secretions. The nurse should never irrigate or reposition the gastric tube after gastric surgery, unless specifically ordered by the physician. In this situation the nurse should clarify the order. Coughing and deep breathing exercises, leg exercises, and early ambulation are appropriate postoperative interventions.
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