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. The nurse is caring for a client with chronic gastritis. The nurse monitors the client, knowing that this client is at risk for which of the following vitamin deficiencies?
- A. Vitamin A
- B. Vitamin B12
- C. Vitamin C
- D. Vitamin E
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Clients with chronic gastritis are at risk for Vitamin B12 deficiency due to impaired absorption.
3. The nurse is caring for a hospitalized client with a diagnosis of ulcerative colitis. Which finding, if noted on assessment of the client, would the nurse report to the physician?
- A. Bloody diarrhea
- B. Hypotension
- C. A hemoglobin of 12 mg/dL
- D. Rebound tenderness
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Rebound tenderness is a sign of peritonitis, a serious complication that needs to be reported to the physician immediately.
4. The nurse is caring for a client admitted to the hospital with a suspected diagnosis of acute appendicitis. Which of the following laboratory results would the nurse expect to note if the client indeed has appendicitis?
- A. Leukopenia with a shift to the right
- B. Leukocytosis with a shift to the right
- C. Leukocytosis with a shift to the left
- D. Leukopenia with a shift to the left
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Laboratory findings do not establish the diagnosis of appendicitis, but often moderate elevation of the white blood cell count (leukocytosis) to 10,000 to 18,000 cells/mm3 occurs with a “shift to the left” (an increased number of immature white blood cells.).
5. A 30-year old client experiences weight loss, abdominal distention, crampy abdominal pain, and intermittent diarrhea after the birth of her 2nd child. Diagnostic tests reveal gluten-induced enteropathy. Which foods must she eliminate from her diet permanently?
- A. Milk and dairy products
- B. Protein-containing foods
- C. Cereal grains (except rice and corn)
- D. Carbohydrates
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Gluten-induced enteropathy, or celiac disease, requires the elimination of gluten-containing grains like wheat, barley, and rye. Dairy, proteins, and carbohydrates are not excluded unless the client has specific intolerances.
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