ATI RN
Gastrointestinal System Nursing Exam Questions
1. A client returns from surgery with a sigmoid colostomy. An ostomy appliance is attached. The priority nursing diagnosis for daily observation and care is:
- A. Diarrhea related to alteration in bowel elimination.
- B. Impaired skin integrity related to seepage.
- C. Impaired nutrition: More than body requirements related to high-fat diet.
- D. Impaired physical mobility related to surgical procedure.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Impaired skin integrity would be the priority nursing diagnosis for daily care of the colostomy because the effluent from the colostomy can be irritating to the skin. Diarrhea isn't a concern at this point. The client will be allowed nothing by mouth until peristalsis returns. The client should get out of bed on the first postoperative day, so mobility shouldn't be a problem.
2. Annebell is being discharged with a colostomy, and you’re teaching her about colostomy care. Which statement correctly describes a healthy stoma?
- A. At first, the stoma may bleed slightly when touched.
- B. The stoma should appear dark and have a bluish hue.
- C. A burning sensation under the stoma faceplate is normal.
- D. The stoma should remain swollen away from the abdomen.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: A healthy stoma may bleed slightly when touched initially, which is normal.
3. The nurse instructs the nursing assistant on how to provide oral hygiene for a client who cannot perform this task for himself. Which of the following techniques should the nurse tell the assistant to incorporate into the client’s daily care?
- A. Assess the oral cavity each time mouth care is given and record observations
- B. Use a soft toothbrush to brush the client’s teeth after each meal
- C. Swab the client’s tongue, gums, and lips with a soft foam applicator every 2 hours.
- D. Rinse the client’s mouth with mouthwash several times a day.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Swabbing the client’s tongue, gums, and lips with a soft foam applicator every 2 hours helps maintain oral hygiene for a client who cannot perform this task.
4. The client has just had surgery to create an ileostomy. The nurse assesses the client in the immediate post-op period for which of the following most frequent complications of this type of surgery?
- A. Intestinal obstruction
- B. Fluid and electrolyte imbalance
- C. Malabsorption of fat
- D. Folate deficiency
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Fluid and electrolyte imbalance is a common complication following ileostomy surgery due to the loss of large volumes of fluid and electrolytes through the stoma. Monitoring and replacing fluids and electrolytes is essential.
5. Which of the following complications is thought to be the most common cause of appendicitis?
- A. A fecalith
- B. Bowel kinking
- C. Internal bowel occlusion
- D. Abdominal bowel swelling
Correct answer: A
Rationale: A fecalith is a hardened stool that can block the appendix, leading to inflammation and infection, which is the most common cause of appendicitis.
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