a nurse is performing an abdominal assessment on a client the nurse determines that which of the following findings should be reported to the physicia
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Nursing Elites

ATI RN

Gastrointestinal System Nursing Exam Questions

1. During an abdominal assessment, a nurse finds pulsation between the umbilicus and pubis on a client. What finding should be reported to the physician?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The presence of pulsation between the umbilicus and pubis could indicate an abdominal aortic aneurysm, which is a serious condition and should be reported to the physician promptly. A concave, midline umbilicus is a normal finding. Bowel sound frequency can vary widely and is not a cause for concern at 15 sounds per minute. Absence of a bruit is a normal finding in an abdominal assessment and does not require reporting.

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?

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 diagnostic tests should be performed annually over age 50 to screen for colon cancer?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: A fecal occult blood test should be performed annually for individuals over age 50 to screen for colon cancer.

4. The client with a new colostomy is concerned about the odor from stool from the ostomy drainage bag. The nurse teaches the client to include which of the following foods in the diet to reduce odor?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The client should be taught to include deodorizing foods in the diet, such as beet greens, parsley, buttermilk, and yogurt. Spinach also reduces odor but is a gas-forming food as well. Broccoli, cucumber, and eggs are gas-forming foods.

5. Which of the following expected outcomes would be most appropriate for a client with peptic ulcer disease? The client will:

Correct answer: A

Rationale: A realistic goal for this client would be to gain relief from epigastric pain. There is no need for vitamin B12 injections because this client has not had any gastric surgery that would lead to vitamin B12 deficiency. Exercise should be modified, not increased, because it can stimulate further production of gastric acid. It is not possible to eliminate stress from a client's life. Instead, the client should be assisted to develop effective coping and problem-solving strategies as necessary.

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