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. A client with gastric cancer may exhibit which of the following symptoms?

A. Abdominal cramping
B. Constant hunger
C. Feeling of fullness
D. Weight gain

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Clients with gastric cancer may experience a feeling of fullness due to the presence of the tumor.

3. Elmer is scheduled for a proctoscopy and has an I.V. The doctor wrote an order for 5mg of I.V. diazepam(Valium). Which order is correct regarding diazepam?

A. Give diazepam in the I.V. port closest to the vein.
B. Mix diazepam with 50 ml of dextrose 5% in water and give over 15 minutes.
C. Give diazepam rapidly I.V. to prevent the bloodstream from diluting the drug mixture.
D. Question the order because I.V. administration of diazepam is contraindicated.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct method for administering I.V. diazepam is to give it in the I.V. port closest to the vein.

4. A client is scheduled for an abdominal perineal resection with permanent colostomy. Which of the following measures would most likely be included in the plan for the client's preoperative preparation?

A. Keep the client NPO for 2 days before surgery.
B. Administer kanamycin (Kantrex) the night before surgery.
C. Inform the client that chest tubes will be in place after surgery.
D. Advise the client to limit activity.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Antibiotics are administered preoperatively to reduce the bacterial count in the colon. The client will be placed on a low residue diet to help cleanse the bowel before surgery but typically is not placed on NPO status until 8 to 12 hours before surgery. Laxatives and enemas may also be administered. Chest tubes would not be expected postoperatively. There is no need to limit the client's activity before surgery.

5. A client with ulcerative colitis has an order to begin salicylate medication to reduce inflammation. The nurse instructs the client to take the medication:

A. 30 minutes before meals
B. On an empty stomach
C. After meals
D. On arising

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: After meals. Salicylate medications for ulcerative colitis should be taken after meals to minimize gastrointestinal irritation and enhance absorption. Taking the medication on an empty stomach (Choice B) may increase the risk of gastrointestinal side effects. Taking it 30 minutes before meals (Choice A) may not provide enough protection for the stomach lining. Taking it on arising (Choice D) is not recommended as it may not coincide with the peak absorption times of the medication.