ATI RN
Gastrointestinal System Nursing Exam Questions
1. The nurse has inserted a nasogastric tube to the level of the oropharynx and has repositioned the client’s head in a flexed-forward position. The client has been asked to begin swallowing. The nurse starts slowly to advance the nasogastric tube with each swallow. The client begins to cough, gag, and choke. Which nursing action would least likely result in proper tube insertion and promote client relaxation?
- A. Continuing to advance the tube to the desired distance
- B. Pulling the tube back slightly
- C. Checking the back of the pharynx using a tongue blade and flashlight.
- D. Instructing the client to breathe slowly and take sips of water.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: As the nasogastric tube is passed through the oropharynx, the gag reflex is stimulated, which may cause coughing, gagging, or choking. Instead of passing through to the esophagus, the nasogastric tube may coil around itself in the oropharynx, or it may enter the larynx and obstruct the airway, pulling the tube back slightly will remove it from the larynx; advancing the tube might position it in the trachea. Swallowing closes the epiglottis over the trachea and helps move the tube into the esophagus. Slow breathing helps the client relax to reduce the gag response. The nurse should check the back of the client’s throat to note if the tube has coiled. The tube may be advanced after the client relaxes.
2. The nurse is caring for a client following a Billroth II procedure. On review of the post-operative orders, which of the following, if prescribed, would the nurse question and verify?
- A. Irrigating the nasogastric tube
- B. Coughing a deep breathing exercises
- C. Leg exercises
- D. Early ambulation
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Irrigating the nasogastric tube is typically not recommended after a Billroth II procedure unless specifically ordered by a physician due to the risk of disrupting the surgical site.
3. Which of the following expected outcomes would be most appropriate for a client with peptic ulcer disease? The client will:
- A. verbalize absence of epigastric pain.
- B. accept the need to inject himself with vitamin B12 for the rest of his life.
- C. understand the need to increase his exercise activity.
- D. eliminate stress from his life.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: A realistic goal for this client would be to gain relief from epigastric pain. There is no need for vitamin B12 injections because this client has not had any gastric surgery that would lead to vitamin B12 deficiency. Exercise should be modified, not increased, because it can stimulate further production of gastric acid. It is not possible to eliminate stress from a client's life. Instead, the client should be assisted to develop effective coping and problem-solving strategies as necessary.
4. Which of the following types of diets is implicated in the development of diverticulosis?
- A. Low-fiber diet
- B. High-fiber diet
- C. High-protein diet
- D. Low-carbohydrate diet
Correct answer: A
Rationale: A low-fiber diet is implicated in the development of diverticulosis because it leads to harder stools and increased pressure in the colon. The lack of fiber results in decreased bulk and slower transit time, predisposing individuals to constipation and the formation of diverticula. High-fiber diets, on the other hand, promote regular bowel movements and help prevent diverticular disease. High-protein and low-carbohydrate diets do not have a direct association with diverticulosis.
5. Which goal of the client’s care should take priority during the first days of hospitalization for an exacerbation of ulcerative colitis?
- A. Promoting self-care and independence
- B. Managing diarrhea
- C. Maintaining adequate nutrition
- D. Promoting rest and comfort
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Managing diarrhea should take priority during the first days of hospitalization for an exacerbation of ulcerative colitis.
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