ATI RN
Gastrointestinal System Nursing Exam Questions
1. Which of the following activities should the nurse encourage the client with a peptic ulcer to avoid?
- A. Chewing gum.
- B. Smoking cigarettes.
- C. Eating chocolate.
- D. Taking acetaminophen (Tylenol).
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Cigarette smoking should be avoided because of its stimulatory effect on gastric secretions. Nicotine also increases the release of epinephrine, which leads to vasoconstriction. The client may chew gum if desired. The client may eat chocolate if desired. A client with a peptic ulcer should check with the physician before taking any over-the-counter drug, but acetaminophen does not typically cause gastric irritation.
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. The client with cirrhosis has ascites and excess fluid volume. Which measure will the nurse include in the plan of care for this client?
- A. Increase the amount of sodium in the diet.
- B. Limit the amount of fluids consumed.
- C. Encourage frequent ambulation.
- D. Administer magnesium antacids.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Excess fluid volume, related to the accumulation of fluid in the peritoneal and dependent areas of the body, can occur in the client with cirrhosis. Fluids should be restricted, including fluids given in medications and meals. Sodium restriction also aids in reducing fluid volume excess.
4. The nurse is reviewing the physician’s orders written for a client admitted with acute pancreatitis. Which physician order would the nurse question if noted on the client’s chart?
- A. NPO status
- B. Insert a nasogastric tube
- C. An anticholinergic medication
- D. Morphine for pain
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Morphine for pain should be questioned as it can cause spasms of the sphincter of Oddi, worsening pancreatitis.
5. After a right hemicolectomy for treatment of colon cancer, a 57-year old client is reluctant to turn while on bed rest. Which action by the nurse would be appropriate?
- A. Asking a co-worker to help turn the client
- B. Explaining to the client why turning is important.
- C. Allowing the client to turn when he’s ready to do so
- D. Telling the client that the physician’s order states he must turn every 2 hours
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Educating the client about the importance of turning can encourage compliance and promote understanding of the necessity to prevent complications such as pressure ulcers and pneumonia.
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