a client with a history of gastric ulcer suddenly complains of a sharp severe pain in the mid epigastric area which then spreads over the entire abdom
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Nursing Elites

ATI RN

Gastrointestinal System Nursing Exam Questions

1. A client with a history of gastric ulcer suddenly complains of a sharp-severe pain in the mid epigastric area, which then spreads over the entire abdomen. The client’s abdomen is rigid and board-like to palpation, and the client obtains most comfort from lying in the knee-chest position. The nurse calls the physician immediately suspecting that the client is experiencing which of the following complications of peptic ulcer disease?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The signs and symptoms described in the question are consistent with perforation of the ulcer, which then progresses to peritonitis if the perforation is large enough. The client with intestinal obstruction most likely would complain of abdominal pain, distension, and nausea and vomiting. The client with hemorrhage would be vomiting blood or coffee-ground-like material or would be expelling black, tarry, or bloody stools. Intractability is a term that refers to continued symptoms of a disease process, despite ongoing medical treatment.

2. The student nurse is participating in colorectal cancer-screening program. Which patient has the fewest risk factors for colon cancer?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Herman, a 60 y.o. who follows a low-fat, high-fiber diet, has the fewest risk factors for colon cancer.

3. The client with a colostomy has an order for irrigation of the colostomy. The nurse used which solution for irrigation?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Tap water at body temperature is generally used for colostomy irrigation unless the local water supply is not safe for drinking, in which case bottled water can be used.

4. Five days after undergoing surgery, a client develops a small-bowel obstruction. A Miller-Abbott tube is inserted for bowel decompression. Which nursing diagnosis takes priority?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: For a client with a small-bowel obstruction and a Miller-Abbott tube, deficient fluid volume is the priority nursing diagnosis.

5. Which of the following therapies is not included in the medical management of a client with peritonitis?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: A regular diet is not included in the medical management of peritonitis, which requires bowel rest and IV fluids.

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