a nurse is assigned to a 40 year old client who has a diagnosis of chronic pancreatitis the nurse reviews the laboratory result anticipating a laborat
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ATI RN

Gastrointestinal System Nursing Exam Questions

1. A nurse is assigned to a 40-year-old client who has a diagnosis of chronic pancreatitis. The nurse reviews the laboratory result, anticipating a laboratory report that indicates a serum amylase level of

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The normal serum amylase level is 25 to 151 IU/L. With chronic cases of pancreatitis, the rise in serum amylase levels usually does not exceed three times the normal value. In acute pancreatitis, the value may exceed five times the normal value. Options 1 and 2 are within normal limits. Option 3 is an extremely elevated level seen in acute pancreatitis.

2. A client with irritable bowel syndrome is being prepared for discharge. Which of the following meal plans should the nurse give the client?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: A high fiber, low-fat diet is recommended for clients with irritable bowel syndrome to promote bowel regularity and reduce symptoms.

3. A female client complains of gnawing epigastric pain for a few hours after meals. At times, when the pain is severe, vomiting occurs. Specific tests are indicated to rule out:

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Specific tests are indicated to rule out cancer of the stomach when a client complains of gnawing epigastric pain and vomiting after meals.

4. A client who has ulcerative colitis has persistent diarrhea. He is thin and has lost 12 pounds since the exacerbation of his ulcerative colitis. The nurse should anticipate that the physician will order which of the following treatment approaches to help the client meet his nutritional needs?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Implementing total parenteral nutrition helps meet the nutritional needs of a client with persistent diarrhea and significant weight loss due to ulcerative colitis.

5. A nurse is providing instructions to a client who will collect a stool specimen for occult blood. The nurse instructs the client to avoid which of the following for 3 days before the collection of the stool specimen?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Turnips. The nurse would instruct the client to avoid red meat, poultry, fish, turnips, horseradish, and foods such as fruits and vegetables for 3 days before and during testing. These products may alter test results. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because they are not specifically mentioned as items to avoid before collecting a stool specimen for occult blood.

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