dark tarry stools indicate bleeding in which location of the gi tract

ATI RN

ATI Gastrointestinal System Test

1. Dark, tarry stools indicate bleeding in which location of the GI tract?

A. Upper colon.
B. Lower colon.
C. Upper GI tract.
D. Small intestine.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Dark, tarry stools indicate bleeding in the upper GI tract.

2. Vasopressin (Pitressin) therapy is prescribed for a client with a diagnosis of bleeding esophageal varices. The nurse is preparing to administer the medication to the client. Which of the following essential items is needed during the administration of this medication?

A. A cardiac monitor
B. An intubation set
C. A suction setup
D. A tracheotomy set

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The major action of vasopressin is constriction of the splanchnic blood flow. Continuous electrocardiogram and blood pressure monitoring are essential because of the constrictive effects of the medication on the coronary arteries. Options 2, 3, and 4 are not essential items required during the administration of this medication.

3. The most important pathophysiologic factor contributing to the formation of esophageal varices is:

A. Decreased prothrombin formation
B. Decreased albumin formation by the liver
C. Portal hypertension
D. Increased central venous pressure

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Portal hypertension is the most important pathophysiologic factor contributing to the formation of esophageal varices.

4. Which of the following tasks should be included in the immediate postoperative management of a client who has undergone gastric resection?

A. Monitoring gastric pH to detect complications
B. Assessing for bowel sounds
C. Providing nutritional support
D. Monitoring for symptoms of hemorrhage

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Monitoring for symptoms of hemorrhage is a crucial part of the immediate postoperative management of a client who has undergone gastric resection.

5. Which of the following definitions best describes gastritis?

A. Erosion of the gastric mucosa
B. Inflammation of a diverticulum
C. Inflammation of the gastric mucosa
D. Reflux of stomach acid into the esophagus

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: 'Inflammation of the gastric mucosa.' Gastritis is characterized by inflammation of the stomach lining, specifically the gastric mucosa. This inflammation can be caused by various factors such as infections, medications, alcohol, or autoimmune diseases. Choice A, 'Erosion of the gastric mucosa,' is incorrect because erosion refers to the wearing away of tissue rather than inflammation. Choice B, 'Inflammation of a diverticulum,' is incorrect because gastritis specifically involves inflammation of the stomach lining, not a diverticulum. Choice D, 'Reflux of stomach acid into the esophagus,' describes gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), which is different from gastritis.