ATI RN
Gastrointestinal System Nursing Exam Questions
1. The client with a colostomy has an order for irrigation of the colostomy. The nurse uses which solution for the irrigation?
- A. Distilled water
- B. Tap water
- C. Sterile water
- D. Lactated Ringer’s
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct solution to use for the irrigation of a colostomy is warm tap water or saline solution. If tap water is not suitable for drinking, bottled water can be used. Distilled water, sterile water, and Lactated Ringer’s are not appropriate solutions for colostomy irrigation. Distilled water lacks essential minerals, sterile water may not provide adequate cleaning, and Lactated Ringer’s is not indicated for this procedure.
2. 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: Bedrest is not required following this surgical procedure. The client should take analgesics as needed and as prescribed to control pain. A drain is not used in this surgical procedure, although the client may be instructed in simple dressing changes. Coughing is avoided to prevent disruption of the tissue integrity, which can occur because of the location of this surgical procedure.
3. Which of the following tests can be used to diagnose ulcers?
- A. Abdominal x-ray
- B. Barium swallow
- C. Computed tomography (CT) scan
- D. Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD)
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) is a diagnostic test that involves visualizing the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum to diagnose ulcers.
4. Anna is 45 y.o. and has a bleeding ulcer. Despite multiple blood transfusions, her HGB is 7.5g/dl and HCT is 27%. Her doctor determines that surgical intervention is necessary and she undergoes partial gastrectomy. Postoperative nursing care includes:
- A. Giving pain medication Q6H.
- B. Flushing the NG tube with sterile water.
- C. Positioning her in high Fowler’s position.
- D. Keeping her NPO until the return of peristalsis.
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Postoperative care for a patient who underwent partial gastrectomy includes keeping her NPO until the return of peristalsis to prevent complications.
5. Claire, a 33 y.o. is on your floor with a possible bowel obstruction. Which intervention is priority for her?
- A. Obtain daily weights.
- B. Measure abdominal girth.
- C. Keep strict intake and output.
- D. Encourage her to increase fluids.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: For a patient with a possible bowel obstruction, measuring abdominal girth is a priority to monitor for signs of worsening obstruction or distention.
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