Nursing Elites

1. Which of the following complications is thought to be the most common cause of appendicitis?

• A. A fecalith
• B. Bowel kinking
• C. Internal bowel occlusion
• D. Abdominal bowel swelling

Correct answer: A

Rationale: A fecalith is a hardened stool that can block the appendix, leading to inflammation and infection, which is the most common cause of appendicitis.

2. The nurse is teaching the client how to perform a colostomy irrigation. To enhance the effectiveness of the irrigation and fecal returns, what measure should the nurse instruct the client to do?

• A. Increase fluid intake
• B. Reduce the amount of irrigation solution
• C. Perform the irrigation in the evening
• D. Place heat on the abdomen

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Increasing fluid intake helps to enhance the effectiveness of colostomy irrigation by softening the stool and promoting better fecal return.

3. Which of the following terms best describes the pain associated with appendicitis?

• A. Aching
• B. Fleeting
• C. Intermittent
• D. Steady

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Steady. The pain associated with appendicitis is typically constant and steady, especially in the lower right quadrant of the abdomen. It is not described as aching (choice A) because it is more persistent and severe than a dull ache. It is not fleeting (choice B) as appendicitis pain tends to worsen over time. It is also not intermittent (choice C) as the pain is continuous and does not come and go.

4. 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.

5. 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.

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