gastrointestinal system nursing exam questions Gastrointestinal System Nursing Exam Questions - Nursing Elites
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Gastrointestinal System Nursing Exam Questions

1. Cholestyramine resin (Questran Light) is prescribed for the client with an elevated serum cholesterol level. The nurse would instruct the client to take the medication

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Cholestyramine resin binds with bile salts in the intestines to form a compound that is excreted in the feces. The client should be instructed to mix the medication with 3 to 6 oz of water, milk, fruit juice, or soup. The medication should be administered before meals. The medication is not administered via rectal suppository.

2. A client returns from surgery with a sigmoid colostomy. An ostomy appliance is attached. The priority nursing diagnosis for daily observation and care is:

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Impaired skin integrity would be the priority nursing diagnosis for daily care of the colostomy because the effluent from the colostomy can be irritating to the skin. Diarrhea isn't a concern at this point. The client will be allowed nothing by mouth until peristalsis returns. The client should get out of bed on the first postoperative day, so mobility shouldn't be a problem.

3. When preparing the client with hepatitis A for extended convalescence, the nurse teaches the client about problems that may occur. The nurse knows that the client has understood the teaching when he says that he is most likely to have difficulty:

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Convalescence after hepatitis A may take weeks or even months. Boredom and depression are common problems that the client should anticipate. Abdominal pain is not usually a symptom of hepatitis A. Maintaining a regular bowel elimination pattern is not usually a problem with hepatitis. Problems preventing respiratory complications are unlikely. To support healing, activity is strictly limited but bed rest is not prescribed.

4. A nurse is performing an assessment on a client with a suspected diagnosis of acute pancreatitis. The nurse assesses the client, knowing that which of the following is a hallmark sign of this disorder?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: A hallmark sign of acute pancreatitis is severe abdominal pain that is not relieved by vomiting. Nausea and vomiting are common presenting symptoms, with vomitus typically consisting of gastric and duodenal contents. Hypothermia is not a hallmark sign of acute pancreatitis. Fever, typically less than 38 degrees centigrade, is more common. Epigastric pain radiating to the neck area is not a characteristic sign of acute pancreatitis. Therefore, choice B is the correct answer.

5. The nurse is assessing a 71-year-old female client with ulcerative colitis. Which assessment finding related to the family will have the greatest impact on the client's rehabilitation after discharge?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Emotional support from the family is the main need. A special diet doesn't focus on emotional needs. Role expectations don't address the main issue, but emotional support while the client is fulfilling these roles is important. The family's ability to understand the ups and downs of the illness will help them but not the client.

Similar Questions

A client is suspected of having hepatitis. Which diagnostic test results will assist in confirming this diagnosis?
The nurse is irrigating a client's colostomy when she complains of abdominal cramping after receiving about 100 mL of the irrigating solution. What should the nurse's first response be in this situation?
A nurse has been caring for a client with a Sengstaken-Blakemore tube. The physician arrives on the nursing unit and deflates the esophageal balloon. The nurse should monitor the client most closely for which of the following?
Vasopressin (Pitressin) therapy is prescribed for a client with a diagnosis of bleeding esophageal varices. The nurse is preparing to administer the medication to the client. Which of the following essential items is needed during the administration of this medication?
A 30-year-old woman is admitted to the hospital with complaints of severe abdominal cramping and diarrhea. The nurse evaluates the effectiveness of the patient's intravenous therapy. Which of the following laboratory tests BEST reflects hydration status?
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