ATI RN
Gastrointestinal System Nursing Exam Questions
1. A nurse is reviewing the results of serum laboratory studies drawn on a client who is suspected of having hepatitis. The nurse interprets that an elevation in which of the following studies is the most specific indicator of the disease?
- A. Erythrocyte sedimentation rate
- B. Serum bilirubin
- C. Hemoglobin
- D. Blood urea nitrogen
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Laboratory indicators of hepatitis include elevated liver enzymes, serum bilirubin level, and erythrocyte sedimentation rate is nonspecific test that indicates the presence of inflammation somewhere in the body. Elevated blood urea nitrogen may indicate renal dysfunction. A hemoglobin level is unrelated to this diagnosis.
2. Which of the following medications is most effective for treating the pain associated with irritable bowel disease?
- A. Acetaminophen
- B. Opiates
- C. Steroids
- D. Stool softeners
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Acetaminophen is often the first line of treatment for pain associated with irritable bowel disease due to its safety profile.
3. 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.
4. A patient with Crohn’s disease is admitted after 4 days of diarrhea. Which of the following urine specific gravity values do you expect to find in this patient?
- A. 1.005
- B. 1.011
- C. 1.02
- D. 1.03
Correct answer: D
Rationale: A urine specific gravity of 1.030 indicates concentrated urine, which is expected in a patient with dehydration due to diarrhea from Crohn’s disease.
5. The student nurse is teaching the family of a patient with liver failure. You instruct them to limit which foods in the patient’s diet?
- A. Meats and beans.
- B. Butter and gravies.
- C. Potatoes and pastas.
- D. Cakes and pastries.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: For a patient with liver failure, it is important to limit the intake of meats and beans to reduce the risk of hepatic encephalopathy.
Similar Questions
Access More Features
ATI RN Basic
$69.99/ 30 days
- 5,000 Questions with answers
- All ATI courses Coverage
- 30 days access
ATI RN Premium
$149.99/ 90 days
- 5,000 Questions with answers
- All ATI courses Coverage
- 30 days access