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

Nursing Elites

ATI RN

ATI Gastrointestinal System Test

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

Correct answer: C

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

2. The nurse is doing an admission assessment on a client with a history of duodenal ulcer. To determine whether the problem is currently active, the nurse would assess the client for which of the following most frequent symptom(s) of duodenal ulcer?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Pain that is relieved by food intake is the most frequent symptom of duodenal ulcers because the food neutralizes the stomach acid.

3. The nurse is caring for a client with an exacerbation of ulcerative colitis. Which of the following nursing measures should be included in the client's plan of care?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: It is important for the client to have frequent rest periods. Repeated episodes of diarrhea interrupt sleep patterns, and poor nutrition may also cause the client to feel weak. If the client is experiencing a severe exacerbation of ulcerative colitis, bed rest may be ordered. Antidiarrheal medications can be used selectively in ulcerative colitis but are not recommended for regular use as they can lead to colonic dilation. The client should maintain a low-residue, high-calorie, caffeine-free diet.

4. Which of the following symptoms best describes Murphy’s sign?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Murphy's sign is described as pain elicited on deep inspiration when the examiner's fingers are placed under the right costal margin.

5. Kevin has a history of peptic ulcer disease and vomits coffee-ground emesis. What does this indicate?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Coffee-ground emesis is a sign of upper gastrointestinal bleeding that occurred approximately 2 hours earlier. It results from the breakdown of blood in the stomach due to digestive enzymes, giving it a coffee-ground appearance. Choice A is incorrect because coffee-ground emesis indicates older, partially digested blood, not fresh active bleeding. Choice B is incorrect as gastric lavage is not indicated for coffee-ground emesis. Choice D is incorrect because a transfusion of packed RBCs is not the immediate management for this presentation.

Similar Questions

An enema is prescribed for a client with suspected appendicitis. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
The nurse is providing discharge instructions to a client following gastrectomy. Which measure will the nurse instruct the client to follow to assist in preventing dumping syndrome?
After a subtotal gastrectomy, care of the client’s nasogastric tube and drainage system should include which of the following nursing interventions?
Gail is scheduled for a cholecystectomy. After completion of preoperative teaching, Gail states,”If I lie still and avoid turning after the operation, I’ll avoid pain. Do you think this is a good idea?” What is the best response?
Which of the following symptoms would a client in the early stages of peritonitis exhibit?

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

Other Courses