ATI RN
Gastrointestinal System Nursing Exam Questions
1. The nurse is caring for a client following a Billroth II procedure. On review of the postoperative orders, which of the following if prescribed, should the nurse question and verify?
- A. Irrigating the nasogastric tube
- B. Coughing and deep breathing exercises
- C. Leg exercises
- D. Early ambulation
Correct answer: A
Rationale: In a Billroth II procedure the proximal remnant of the stomach is anastomosed to the proximal jejunum. Patency of the nasogastric tube is critical for preventing the retention of gastric secretions. The nurse should never irrigate or reposition the gastric tube after gastric surgery, unless specifically ordered by the physician. In this situation the nurse should clarify the order. Coughing and deep breathing exercises, leg exercises, and early ambulation are appropriate postoperative interventions.
2. 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?
- A. Eat high-carbohydrate foods
- B. Limit the fluids taken with meals
- C. Ambulate following a meal
- D. Sit in a high-Fowlers position during meals
Correct answer: B
Rationale: To prevent dumping syndrome after a gastrectomy, it is recommended to limit fluids taken with meals to slow down gastric emptying and reduce the symptoms.
3. Britney, a 20 y.o. student is admitted with acute pancreatitis. Which laboratory findings do you expect to be abnormal for this patient?
- A. Serum creatinine and BUN
- B. Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST)
- C. Serum amylase and lipase
- D. Cardiac enzymes
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Serum amylase and lipase levels are typically elevated in patients with acute pancreatitis.
4. A client returns from surgery with a sigmoid colostomy. An ostomy appliance is attached. The priority nursing diagnosis for daily observation and care is:
- A. Diarrhea related to alteration in bowel elimination.
- B. Impaired skin integrity related to seepage.
- C. Impaired nutrition: More than body requirements related to high-fat diet.
- D. Impaired physical mobility related to surgical procedure.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Impaired skin integrity would be the priority nursing diagnosis for daily care of the colostomy because the effluent from the colostomy can be irritating to the skin. Diarrhea isn't a concern at this point. The client will be allowed nothing by mouth until peristalsis returns. The client should get out of bed on the first postoperative day, so mobility shouldn't be a problem.
5. Which of the following diets is most commonly associated with colon cancer?
- A. Low-fiber, high fat
- B. Low-fat, high-fiber
- C. Low-protein, high-carbohydrate
- D. Low carbohydrate, high protein
Correct answer: A
Rationale: A low-fiber, high-fat diet is most commonly associated with an increased risk of colon cancer.
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