a nurse is caring for a client who has just returned from the operating room following the creation of a colostomy the nurse is assessing the drainage

ATI RN

Gastrointestinal System Nursing Exam Questions

1. A nurse is caring for a client who has just returned from the operating room following the creation of a colostomy. The nurse is assessing the drainage in the pouch attached to the site where the colostomy was formed and notes serosanguineous drainage. Which nursing action is most appropriate based on this assessment?

A. Notify the physician
B. Document the amount and characteristics of the drainage
C. Apply ice to the stoma site
D. Apply pressure to the site

Correct answer: B

Rationale: During the first 24 to 72 hours following surgery, mucus and serosanguineous drainage are expected from the stoma. Documenting the amount and characteristics of the drainage is appropriate. The nurse does not need to notify the physician because this is an expected finding. Applying ice or pressure to the site is not necessary.

2. Which of the following symptoms is associated with ulcerative colitis?

A. Dumping syndrome
B. Rectal bleeding
C. Soft stools
D. Fistulas

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Rectal bleeding is a common symptom of ulcerative colitis due to the inflammation and ulceration of the colon lining.

3. The nurse is reviewing the medication record of a client with acute gastritis. Which medication if noted on the client’s record, would the nurse question?

A. Digoxin (Lanoxin)
B. Indomethacin (Indocin)
C. Furosemide (Lasix)
D. Propranolol hydrochloride (Inderal)

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Indomethacin (Indocin) is a Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug and can cause ulceration of the esophagus, stomach, duodenum, or small intestine. Indomethacin is contraindicated in a client with gastrointestinal disorders. Furosemide (Lasix) is a loop diuretic. Digoxin is an antidysrhythmic. Propranolol (Inderal) is a B- adrenergic blocker. Furosemide, digoxin, and propranolol are not contraindicated in clients with gastric disorders.

4. Which of the following factors should be the main focus of nursing management for a client hospitalized for cholecystitis?

A. Administration of antibiotics
B. Assessment for complications
C. Preparation for lithotripsy
D. Preparation for surgery

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Assessment for complications should be the main focus of nursing management for a client hospitalized for cholecystitis.

5. Which of the following would be an expected nutritional outcome for a client who has undergone a subtotal gastrectomy for cancer?

A. Regain weight loss within 1 month after surgery
B. Resume normal dietary intake of three meals per day
C. Control nausea and vomiting through regular use of antiemetics
D. Achieve optimal nutritional status through oral or parenteral feedings

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Achieving optimal nutritional status through oral or parenteral feedings is an expected nutritional outcome for a client who has undergone a subtotal gastrectomy for cancer.