ATI RN
Gastrointestinal System Nursing Exam Questions
1. After gastric resection surgery, which of the following signs and symptoms would alert the nurse to the development of a leaking anastomosis?
- A. Pain, fever, and abdominal rigidity.
- B. Diarrhea with fat in the stool.
- C. Palpitations, pallor, and diaphoresis after eating.
- D. Feelings of fullness and nausea after eating.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Pain, fever, and abdominal rigidity are signs and symptoms of inflammation or peritonitis caused by the leaking anastomosis. Diarrhea with fat in the stool is steatorrhea and is not present in peritonitis. Palpitations, pallor, and diaphoresis after eating are vasomotor symptoms of gastric retention. Feelings of fullness and nausea after eating are not present in peritonitis.
2. A client returns from surgery with a sigmoid colostomy. An ostomy appliance is attached. The priority nursing diagnosis for daily observation and care is:
- A. Diarrhea related to alteration in bowel elimination.
- B. Impaired skin integrity related to seepage.
- C. Impaired nutrition: More than body requirements related to high-fat diet.
- D. Impaired physical mobility related to surgical procedure.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Impaired skin integrity would be the priority nursing diagnosis for daily care of the colostomy because the effluent from the colostomy can be irritating to the skin. Diarrhea isn't a concern at this point. The client will be allowed nothing by mouth until peristalsis returns. The client should get out of bed on the first postoperative day, so mobility shouldn't be a problem.
3. A client with viral hepatitis is discussing with the nurse the need to avoid alcohol and states, 'I’m not sure I can avoid alcohol.' The most appropriate response is
- A. Everything will be alright.
- B. I think you should talk more with the doctor about this.
- C. I don’t believe that.
- D. I’m not sure that I don’t understand. Would you please explain?
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The most appropriate response in this situation is to seek clarification from the client by saying, 'I’m not sure that I don’t understand. Would you please explain?' This response shows empathy and a willingness to listen, encouraging the client to elaborate on their concerns. False reassurance (Choice A) is not helpful as it dismisses the client's feelings. Suggesting to talk more with the doctor (Choice B) may deflect from addressing the client's immediate concerns. Expressing disbelief (Choice C) can create a barrier to open communication, making the client feel unsupported.
4. You have to teach ostomy self care to a patient with a colostomy. You tell the patient to measure and cut the wafer:
- A. To the exact size of the stoma.
- B. About 1/16†larger than the stoma.
- C. About 1/8†larger than the stoma.
- D. About 1/4″ larger than the stoma.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The wafer should be measured and cut about 1/8†larger than the stoma to ensure proper fit and prevent skin irritation.
5. Which of the following symptoms indicates diverticulosis?
- A. No symptoms exist
- B. Change in bowel habits
- C. Anorexia with low-grade fever
- D. Episodic, dull, or steady midabdominal pain
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Diverticulosis often has no symptoms and is usually found incidentally during tests for other conditions.
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