ATI RN
Gastrointestinal System Nursing Exam Questions
1. A client is suspected of having hepatitis. Which diagnostic test results will assist in confirming this diagnosis?
- A. Decreased erythrocyte sedimentation rate
- B. Elevated serum bilirubin
- C. Elevated hemoglobin
- D. Elevated blood urea nitrogen
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Laboratory indicators of hepatitis include elevated liver enzyme levels, elevated serum bilirubin levels, elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rates, and leucopenia. An elevated blood urea nitrogen may indicate renal dysfunction. A hemoglobin level is unrelated to this diagnosis.
2. Which of the following mechanisms can facilitate the development of diverticulosis into diverticulitis?
- A. Treating constipation with chronic laxative use, leading to dependence on laxatives
- B. Chronic constipation causing an obstruction, reducing forward flow of intestinal contents
- C. Herniation of the intestinal mucosa, rupturing the wall of the intestine
- D. Undigested food blocking the diverticulum, predisposing the area to bacterial invasion
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D. Undigested food blocking the diverticulum can lead to bacterial invasion, causing inflammation and turning diverticulosis into diverticulitis. Choices A, B, and C do not directly facilitate the development of diverticulitis. Choice A involves a different mechanism related to laxative use, choice B describes a complication of chronic constipation but does not necessarily lead to diverticulitis, and choice C refers to a different condition involving herniation of the intestinal mucosa.
3. When teaching a community group about measures to prevent colon cancer, which instruction should the nurse include?
- A. Limit fat intake to 20% to 25% of your total daily calories.
- B. Include 15 to 20 grams of fiber into your daily diet.
- C. Get an annual rectal examination after age 35.
- D. Undergo sigmoidoscopy annually after age 50.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Limiting fat intake is a recommended measure to reduce the risk of colon cancer. Including fiber, undergoing annual rectal examinations, and sigmoidoscopy are also important, but limiting fat intake is directly related to reducing cancer risk.
4. Nathaniel has severe pruritus due to having hepatitis B. What is the best intervention for his comfort?
- A. Give tepid baths.
- B. Avoid lotions and creams.
- C. Use hot water to increase vasodilation.
- D. Use cold water to decrease the itching.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Giving tepid baths can help soothe severe pruritus due to hepatitis B.
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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