ATI RN
Gastrointestinal System Nursing Exam Questions
1. A nurse is preparing to remove a nasogastric tube from a client. The nurse would instruct the client to do which of the following just before the nurse removes the tube?
- A. To perform Valsalva’s maneuver
- B. To take hold and hold a deep breath
- C. To exhale
- D. To inhale and exhale quickly
Correct answer: B
Rationale: When the nurse removes a nasogastric tube, the client is instructed to take and hold a deep breath. This will be obstructed temporarily during the tube removal. This allows for easy withdrawal through the esophagus into the nose. The nurse removes the tube with one smooth, continuous pull.
2. Which of the following types of diets is implicated in the development of diverticulosis?
- A. Low-fiber diet
- B. High-fiber diet
- C. High-protein diet
- D. Low-carbohydrate diet
Correct answer: A
Rationale: A low-fiber diet is implicated in the development of diverticulosis because it leads to harder stools and increased pressure in the colon. The lack of fiber results in decreased bulk and slower transit time, predisposing individuals to constipation and the formation of diverticula. High-fiber diets, on the other hand, promote regular bowel movements and help prevent diverticular disease. High-protein and low-carbohydrate diets do not have a direct association with diverticulosis.
3. Which of the following best describes the method of action of medications, such as ranitidine (Zantac), which are used in the treatment of peptic ulcer disease?
- A. Neutralize acid
- B. Reduce acid secretions
- C. Stimulate gastrin release
- D. Protect the mucosal barrier
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Medications like ranitidine (Zantac) are H2 receptor antagonists that reduce acid secretions in the stomach, helping to treat peptic ulcer disease.
4. 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.
5. George has a T tube in place after gallbladder surgery. Before discharge, what information or instructions should be given regarding the T tube drainage?
- A. If there is any drainage, notify the surgeon immediately.
- B. The drainage will decrease daily until the bile duct heals.
- C. First, the drainage is dark green; then it becomes dark yellow.
- D. If the drainage stops, milk the tube toward the puncture wound.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Before discharge, inform the patient that the drainage will decrease daily until the bile duct heals.
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