ATI RN
Gastrointestinal System Nursing Exam Questions
1. 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?
- A. Encourage regular use of antidiarrheal medications.
- B. Incorporate frequent rest periods into the client's schedule.
- C. Have the client maintain a high-fiber diet.
- D. Wear a gown when providing direct client 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.
2. Ralph has a history of alcohol abuse and has acute pancreatitis. Which lab value is most likely to be elevated?
- A. Calcium
- B. Glucose
- C. Magnesium
- D. Potassium
Correct answer: B
Rationale: In a patient with acute pancreatitis and a history of alcohol abuse, glucose levels are most likely to be elevated.
3. 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.
4. Sitty, a 66 y.o. patient underwent a colostomy for ruptured diverticulum. She did well during the surgery and returned to your med-surg floor in stable condition. You assess her colostomy 2 days after surgery. Which finding do you report to the doctor?
- A. Blanched stoma
- B. Edematous stoma
- C. Reddish-pink stoma
- D. Brownish-black stoma
Correct answer: A
Rationale: A blanched stoma 2 days after colostomy surgery should be reported to the doctor as it may indicate compromised blood flow.
5. A client with a peptic ulcer reports epigastric pain that frequently awakens her at night, a feeling of fullness in the abdomen, and a feeling of anxiety about her health. Based on this information, which nursing diagnosis would be most appropriate?
- A. Imbalanced Nutrition: Less than Body Requirements related to anorexia.
- B. Disturbed Sleep Pattern related to epigastric pain
- C. Ineffective Coping related to exacerbation of duodenal ulcer
- D. Activity Intolerance related to abdominal pain
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Disturbed Sleep Pattern related to epigastric pain is appropriate because the client reports pain that frequently awakens her at night.
Similar Questions
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