ATI RN
Gastrointestinal System Nursing Exam Questions
1. Cholestyramine resin (Questran Light) is prescribed for the client with an elevated serum cholesterol level. The nurse would instruct the client to take the medication
- A. After meals.
- B. Mixed with fruit juice.
- C. Via rectal suppository.
- D. At least 3 hours before meals.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Cholestyramine resin binds with bile salts in the intestines to form a compound that is excreted in the feces. The client should be instructed to mix the medication with 3 to 6 oz of water, milk, fruit juice, or soup. The medication should be administered before meals. The medication is not administered via rectal suppository.
2. While caring for a client with peptic ulcer disease, the client reports that he has been nauseated most of the day and is now feeling lightheaded and dizzy. Based upon these findings, which nursing actions would be most appropriate for the nurse to take?
- A. Administering an antacid hourly until nausea subsides.
- B. Monitoring the client's vital signs
- C. Notifying the family and friends of the client's symptoms
- D. Initiating oxygen therapy
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Monitoring the client's vital signs and notifying the physician of the client's symptoms are crucial actions based on the reported symptoms.
3. Janice is waiting for discharge instructions after her herniorrhaphy. Which of the following instructions do you include?
- A. Eat a low-fiber diet.
- B. Resume heavy lifting in 2 weeks.
- C. Lose weight, if obese.
- D. Resume sexual activity once discomfort is gone.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Advise the patient to lose weight if obese to reduce the risk of complications after herniorrhaphy.
4. The nurse evaluates the client’s stoma during the initial post-op period. Which of the following observations should be reported immediately to the physician?
- A. The stoma is slightly edematous
- B. The stoma is dark red to purple
- C. The stoma oozes a small amount of blood
- D. The stoma does not expel stool
Correct answer: B
Rationale: A dark red to purple stoma may indicate compromised blood flow or ischemia, which requires immediate medical attention. This color change could be a sign of inadequate blood supply to the stoma tissue, leading to tissue damage or necrosis. Reporting this observation promptly is crucial to prevent further complications. Choices A, C, and D are not indicative of immediate medical concern. A slightly edematous stoma, oozing a small amount of blood, or not expelling stool may not be uncommon findings during the initial post-op period and can be managed without urgent intervention.
5. You’re caring for Carin who has just had ileostomy surgery. During the first 24 hours post-op, how much drainage can you expect from the ileostomy?
- A. 100 ml
- B. 500 ml
- C. 1500 ml
- D. 5000 ml
Correct answer: C
Rationale: During the first 24 hours post-op, you can expect about 1500 ml of drainage from the ileostomy.
Similar Questions
Access More Features
ATI RN Basic
$69.99/ 30 days
- 5,000 Questions with answers
- All ATI courses Coverage
- 30 days access
ATI RN Premium
$149.99/ 90 days
- 5,000 Questions with answers
- All ATI courses Coverage
- 30 days access