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. A client with viral hepatitis has no appetite, and food makes the client nauseated. Which of the following interventions would be most appropriate?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: If nausea occurs and persists, the client will need to be assessed for fluid and electrolyte imbalance. Explaining to the client that the majority of calories should be eaten in the morning hours is important because nausea occurs most often in the afternoon and evening. Clients should select a diet high in calories because energy is required for healing. Protein increases the workload on the liver. Changes in bilirubin interfere with fat absorption, so low-fat diets are tolerated better.

3. After a subtotal gastrectomy, the nurse should anticipate that nasogastric tube drainage will be what color for about 12 to 24 hours after surgery?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Dark brown drainage is expected for about 12 to 24 hours after surgery.

4. A client being treated for chronic cholecystitis should be given which of the following instructions?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Using anticholinergics as prescribed can help manage the symptoms of chronic cholecystitis.

5. Which of the following dietary measures would be useful in preventing esophageal reflux?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Eating small, frequent meals helps prevent esophageal reflux.

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