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. To prevent gastroesophageal reflux in a client with hiatal hernia, the nurse should provide which discharge instructions?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: To prevent reflux of stomach acid into the esophagus, the nurse should advise the client to avoid foods and beverages that tend to increase stomach acid, such as coffee and alcohol. The nurse also should teach the client to avoid lying down after meals, which can aggravate reflux, and to take antacids after eating. The client doesn't need to limit fluids with meals as long as the fluids aren't gastric irritants.

3. The nurse is reviewing the record of a client with Crohn’s disease. Which of the following stool characteristics would the nurse expect to note documented on the client’s record?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Diarrhea is a common stool characteristic in clients with Crohn’s disease due to inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract.

4. To accurately assess for jaundice in a patient with dark skin pigmentation, the nurse should examine which body areas?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: To accurately assess for jaundice in a patient with dark skin pigmentation, the nurse should examine the hard palate of the mouth. Jaundice is best assessed in the sclera; however, in dark-skinned patients, normal yellow pigmentation may be present in the sclera, making it difficult to detect jaundice. Inspection of the hard palate for a yellow color can confirm the presence of jaundice. Cyanosis is best observed in the nail beds, not indicative of jaundice. While skin on the palm of the hand can indicate jaundice, the back of the hand is not a typical area for assessment. Jaundice can be assessed on the soles of the feet in dark-skinned patients, but it is better visualized in the hard palate for accurate evaluation.

5. You’re advising a 21 y.o. with a colostomy who reports problems with flatus. What food should you recommend?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Yogurt can help reduce problems with flatus in patients with a colostomy.

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