ATI RN
Gastrointestinal System Nursing Exam Questions
1. The nurse is preparing to discontinue a client’s nasogastric tube. The client is positioned properly, and the tube has been flushed with 15 mL of air to clear secretions. Before removing the tube, the nurse makes which statement to the client?
- A. Take a deep breath when I tell you and breathe normally while I remove the tube.
- B. Take a deep breath when I tell you and bear down while I remove the tube.
- C. Take a deep breath when I tell you and slowly exhale while I remove the tube.
- D. Take a deep breath when I tell you and hold it while I remove the tube.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The client should take a deep breath because the client’s airway will be obstructed temporarily during tube removal. The nurse then tells the client to exhale slowly and withdraws the tube during exhalation. Bearing down could inhibit the removal of the tube. Breathing normally could result in aspiration of gastric secretions during inhalation. Holding the breath does not facilitate tube removal.
2. You have to teach ostomy self care to a patient with a colostomy. You tell the patient to measure and cut the wafer:
- A. To the exact size of the stoma.
- B. About 1/16” larger than the stoma.
- C. About 1/8” larger than the stoma.
- D. About 1/4″ larger than the stoma.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The wafer should be measured and cut about 1/8” larger than the stoma to ensure proper fit and prevent skin irritation.
3. Which of the following best describes the method of action of medications, such as ranitidine (Zantac), which are used in the treatment of peptic ulcer disease?
- A. Neutralize acid
- B. Reduce acid secretions
- C. Stimulate gastrin release
- D. Protect the mucosal barrier
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Medications like ranitidine (Zantac) are H2 receptor antagonists that reduce acid secretions in the stomach, helping to treat peptic ulcer disease.
4. The client has had a new colostomy created 2 days earlier. The client is beginning to pass malodorous flatus from the stoma. The nurse interprets that
- A. This indicates inadequate preoperative bowel preparation.
- B. This is a normal, expected event.
- C. The client is experiencing early signs of ischemic bowel.
- D. The client should not have the nasogastric tube removed.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: As peristalsis returns following creation of a colostomy, the client begins to pass malodorous flatus. This indicates returning bowel function and is an expected event. Within 72 hours of surgery, the client should begin passing stool via the colostomy.
5. The client with a duodenal ulcer may exhibit which of the following findings on assessment?
- A. Hematemesis
- B. Malnourishment
- C. Melena
- D. Pain with eating
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Melena (black, tarry stools) can be an indication of a duodenal ulcer.
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