ATI RN
Gastrointestinal System Nursing Exam Questions
1. Cholestyramine resin (Questran Light) is prescribed for the client with an elevated serum cholesterol level. The nurse would instruct the client to take the medication
- A. After meals.
- B. Mixed with fruit juice.
- C. Via rectal suppository.
- D. At least 3 hours before meals.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Cholestyramine resin binds with bile salts in the intestines to form a compound that is excreted in the feces. The client should be instructed to mix the medication with 3 to 6 oz of water, milk, fruit juice, or soup. The medication should be administered before meals. The medication is not administered via rectal suppository.
2. Which of the following laboratory results would be expected in a client with peritonitis?
- A. Partial thromboplastin time above 100 seconds
- B. Hemoglobin level below 10 mg/dL
- C. Potassium level above 5.5 mEq/L
- D. White blood cell count above 15,000
Correct answer: D
Rationale: A white blood cell count above 15,000 is indicative of an infection, such as peritonitis.
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 in 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: Crohn’s disease is characterized by nonbloody diarrhea of usually not more than four to five stools daily. Over time, the diarrhea episodes increase in frequency, duration, and severity. Chronic constipation (Choice A), constipation alternating with diarrhea (Choice C), and stool constantly oozing from the rectum (Choice D) are not characteristics typically associated with Crohn’s disease.
4. You’re caring for Betty with liver cirrhosis. Which of the following assessment findings leads you to suspect hepatic encephalopathy in her?
- A. Asterixis
- B. Chvostek’s sign
- C. Trousseau’s sign
- D. Hepatojugular reflex
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Asterixis, a flapping tremor of the hands, is a sign of hepatic encephalopathy.
5. The nurse is preparing a discharge teaching plan for the client who had an umbilical hernia repair. Which of the following would the nurse include in the plan?
- A. Restricting pain medication
- B. Maintaining bedrest
- C. Avoiding coughing
- D. Irrigating the drain
Correct answer: C
Rationale: To prevent strain on the surgical site and avoid disruption of tissue integrity, the client should avoid coughing after an umbilical hernia repair.
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