a penrose drain is in place on the first postoperative day following a cholecystectomy serosanguineous drainage is noted on the dressing covering the
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Nursing Elites

ATI RN

Gastrointestinal System Nursing Exam Questions

1. A Penrose drain is in place on the first postoperative day following a cholecystectomy. Serosanguineous drainage is noted on the dressing covering the drain. Which nursing intervention is most appropriate?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Serosanguineous drainage with a small amount of bile is expected from the Penrose drain for the first 24 hours. Drainage then decreases, and the drain is removed usually within 48 hours. The nurse does not need to notify the physician. A sterile dressing covers the site and should be changed to prevent infection and skin excoriation.

2. The nurse is monitoring a client admitted to the hospital with a diagnosis of appendicitis. The client is scheduled for surgery for 2 hours. The client begins to complain of increases abdominal pain and begins to vomit. On assessment the nurse notes that the abdomen distended and bowel sounds are diminished. Which of the following is the most appropriate nursing intervention?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Based on the signs and symptoms presented in the question, the nurse should suspect peritonitis and should notify the physician. Administering pain medication is not an appropriate intervention. Heat should never be applied to the abdomen of a client with suspected appendicitis. Scheduling surgical time is not within the scope of nursing practice, although the physician probably would perform the surgery earlier than the prescheduled time.

3. The nurse instructs the nursing assistant on how to provide oral hygiene for a client who cannot perform this task for himself. Which of the following techniques should the nurse tell the assistant to incorporate into the client’s daily care?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Swabbing the client’s tongue, gums, and lips with a soft foam applicator every 2 hours helps maintain oral hygiene for a client who cannot perform this task.

4. Which area of the alimentary canal is the most common location for Crohn’s disease?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The terminal ileum is the most common location for Crohn's disease.

5. Which of the following symptoms is a client with colon cancer most likely to exhibit?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: A change in bowel habits is the most common symptom of colon cancer.

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