ATI RN
Gastrointestinal System Nursing Exam Questions
1. During an abdominal assessment, a nurse finds pulsation between the umbilicus and pubis on a client. What finding should be reported to the physician?
- A. Concave, midline umbilicus
- B. Pulsation between the umbilicus and pubis
- C. Bowel sound frequency of 15 sounds per minute
- D. Absence of a bruit
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The presence of pulsation between the umbilicus and pubis could indicate an abdominal aortic aneurysm, which is a serious condition and should be reported to the physician promptly. A concave, midline umbilicus is a normal finding. Bowel sound frequency can vary widely and is not a cause for concern at 15 sounds per minute. Absence of a bruit is a normal finding in an abdominal assessment and does not require reporting.
2. The student nurse is participating in colorectal cancer-screening program. Which patient has the fewest risk factors for colon cancer?
- A. Janice, a 45 y.o. with a 25-year history of ulcerative colitis
- B. George, a 50 y.o. whose father died of colon cancer
- C. Herman, a 60 y.o. who follows a low-fat, high-fiber diet
- D. Sissy, a 72 y.o. with a history of breast 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 nurse is monitoring a client for the early signs and symptoms for dumping syndrome. Which symptom indicates this occurrence?
- A. Abdominal cramping and pain
- B. Bradycardia and indigestion
- C. Sweating and pallor
- D. Double vision and chest pain
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Early manifestations of dumping syndrome occur 5 to 30 minutes after eating. Symptoms include vertigo, tachycardia, syncope, sweating, pallor, palpitations, and the desire to lie down.
4. The nurse has provided home care instructions to a client who had a subtotal gastrectomy. The nurse instructs the client regarding the signs and symptoms associated with dumping syndrome. Which of the following signs and symptoms, if identified by the client, indicates an understanding of this potential complication following gastrointestinal surgery?
- A. Hiccups and diarrhea
- B. Fatigue and abdominal pain
- C. Constipation and fever
- D. Diaphoresis and diarrhea
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Diaphoresis and diarrhea. Dumping syndrome occurs after gastric surgery when food moves quickly from the stomach to the intestine, causing fluid shifts and leading to symptoms like weakness, dizziness, diaphoresis, flushing, hypotension, abdominal pain, distension, hyperactive bowel sounds, and diarrhea. Choices A, B, and C do not reflect the typical signs and symptoms of dumping syndrome.
5. The nurse is caring for a client with chronic gastritis. The nurse monitors the client, knowing that this client is at risk for which of the following vitamin deficiencies?
- A. Vitamin A
- B. Vitamin B12
- C. Vitamin C
- D. Vitamin E
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Clients with chronic gastritis are at risk for Vitamin B12 deficiency due to impaired absorption.
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