ATI RN
Gastrointestinal System Nursing Exam Questions
1. A client who has had gastrectomy is not producing sufficient intrinsic factor. The nurse interprets that the client has lost the ability to absorb cyanocobalamin (vitamin B12) in the
- A. Stomach.
- B. Small intestine.
- C. Large intestine.
- D. Colon.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Intrinsic factor is produced in the stomach but is used to aid in the absorption of vitamin B12 in the small intestine. Vitamin B12 is not absorbed in the large intestine (options 3 and 4).
2. In a client with diarrhea, which outcome indicates that fluid resuscitation is successful?
- A. The client passes formed stools at regular intervals
- B. The client reports a decrease in stool frequency and liquidity
- C. The client exhibits firm skin turgor
- D. The client no longer experiences perianal burning
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Firm skin turgor indicates adequate hydration, which is a key goal of fluid resuscitation. Formed stools, decreased stool frequency, and relief from perianal burning are important but do not directly indicate successful fluid resuscitation.
3. A client is admitted to the hospital with acute viral hepatitis. Which of the following signs or symptoms would the nurse expect to note based on this diagnosis?
- A. Spider angiomas
- B. Fatigue
- C. Pale urine
- D. Weight gain
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Common signs of acute viral hepatitis include weight loss, dark urine, and fatigue. The client is anorexic, possibly from a toxin produced by the diseased liver, and finds food distasteful. The urine darkens because of excess bilirubin being excreted by the kidneys. Fatigue occurs during all phases of hepatitis.
4. Which of the following expected outcomes would be appropriate for the client who has ulcerative colitis?
- A. The client maintains a daily record of intake and output.
- B. The client verbalizes the importance of small, frequent feedings.
- C. The client uses a heating pad to decrease abdominal cramping.
- D. The client accepts that a colostomy is inevitable at some time in his life.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Small, frequent feedings are better tolerated by clients with ulcerative colitis as they lessen the amount of fecal material present in the gastrointestinal tract and decrease stimulation. The client does not need to maintain a daily record of intake and output unless an exacerbation of the disease occurs. A heating pad should not be applied to the intestine as it is inflamed. It is not inevitable that the client will require surgery to treat ulcerative colitis.
5. Which of the following factors is believed to cause ulcerative colitis?
- A. Acidic diet
- B. Altered immunity
- C. Chronic constipation
- D. Emotional stress
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Ulcerative colitis is believed to be caused by an altered immune response in the gastrointestinal tract.
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