ATI RN
Gastrointestinal System Nursing Exam Questions
1. A client with viral hepatitis states, 'I am so yellow.' The nurse most appropriately would
- A. Assist the client in expressing feelings.
- B. Do most of the activities of daily living for the client.
- C. Provide information to the client only when the client requests it.
- D. Restrict visitors until the jaundice subsides.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: To assist the client in adapting to changes in appearance, the nurse must encourage participation in self-care to foster independence and self-esteem. The nurse should encourage the client to ask questions to clarify misconceptions, learn ways to prevent the spread of hepatitis to reduce fear, and make appropriate decisions. Restricting visitors will reinforce the client’s negative self-esteem.
2. Of the following signs and symptoms of bowel obstruction, which is related primarily to small bowel obstruction rather than large bowel obstruction?
- A. Profuse vomiting.
- B. Cramping abdominal pain.
- C. Abdominal distention.
- D. High-pitched bowel sounds above the obstruction.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Profuse vomiting is the classic sign of small bowel obstruction and rarely occurs with large bowel obstruction. Abdominal discomfort and distention are present in both small and large bowel obstructions, but distention is more common in large bowel obstruction. High-pitched bowel sounds indicate hyperperistalsis, which occurs early in obstruction.
3. The nurse is reviewing the record of a client with Crohn’s disease. Which of the following stool characteristics would the nurse expect to note documented on the client’s record?
- A. Chronic constipation
- B. Diarrhea
- C. Constipation alternating with diarrhea
- D. Stool constantly oozing from the rectum
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Diarrhea is a common stool characteristic in clients with Crohn’s disease due to inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract.
4. Leigh Ann is receiving pancrelipase (Viokase) for chronic pancreatitis. Which observation best indicates the treatment is effective?
- A. There is no skin breakdown.
- B. Her appetite improves.
- C. She loses more than 10 lbs.
- D. Stools are less fatty and decreased in frequency.
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The effectiveness of pancrelipase (Viokase) for chronic pancreatitis is best indicated by stools being less fatty and decreased in frequency.
5. Which of the following diagnostic tests may be performed to determine if a client has gastric cancer?
- A. Barium enema
- B. Colonoscopy
- C. Gastroscopy
- D. Serum chemistry levels
Correct answer: C
Rationale: A gastroscopy is performed to visualize the stomach lining and obtain biopsies to diagnose gastric cancer.
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