Nursing Elites

1. Jerod is experiencing an acute episode of ulcerative colitis. What is the priority for this patient?

• A. Replace lost fluid and sodium.
• B. Monitor for increased serum glucose levels from steroid therapy.
• C. Restrict dietary intake of foods high in potassium.
• D. Note any change in the color and consistency of stools.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is to replace lost fluid and sodium. During an acute episode of ulcerative colitis, the priority is to manage the patient's fluid and electrolyte balance. This is crucial due to the potential for dehydration and electrolyte imbalances resulting from diarrhea and inflammation in the colon. Monitoring serum glucose levels (Choice B) may be important for patients on steroid therapy, but in this scenario, fluid and electrolyte balance take precedence. Restricting dietary intake of foods high in potassium (Choice C) is not a priority in the acute phase of ulcerative colitis. While noting changes in stool color and consistency (Choice D) is important for assessing the patient's gastrointestinal status, it is not the priority when managing acute ulcerative colitis.

2. In a client with diarrhea, which outcome indicates that fluid resuscitation is successful?

• A. The client passes formed stools at regular intervals
• B. The client reports a decrease in stool frequency and liquidity
• C. The client exhibits firm skin turgor
• D. The client no longer experiences perianal burning

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Firm skin turgor indicates adequate hydration, which is a key goal of fluid resuscitation. Formed stools, decreased stool frequency, and relief from perianal burning are important but do not directly indicate successful fluid resuscitation.

3. The client has had a new colostomy created 2 days earlier. The client is beginning to pass malodorous flatus from the stoma. The nurse interprets that

• A. This indicates inadequate preoperative bowel preparation.
• B. This is a normal, expected event.
• C. The client is experiencing early signs of ischemic bowel.
• D. The client should not have the nasogastric tube removed.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: As peristalsis returns following creation of a colostomy, the client begins to pass malodorous flatus. This indicates returning bowel function and is an expected event. Within 72 hours of surgery, the client should begin passing stool via the colostomy.

4. Which of the following diagnostic tests may be performed to determine if a client has gastric cancer?

• A. Barium enema
• B. Colonoscopy
• C. Gastroscopy
• D. Serum chemistry levels

Correct answer: C

Rationale: A gastroscopy is performed to visualize the stomach lining and obtain biopsies to diagnose gastric cancer.

5. After a right hemicolectomy for treatment of colon cancer, a 57-year old client is reluctant to turn while on bed rest. Which action by the nurse would be appropriate?

• A. Asking a co-worker to help turn the client
• B. Explaining to the client why turning is important.
• C. Allowing the client to turn when he’s ready to do so
• D. Telling the client that the physician’s order states he must turn every 2 hours

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Educating the client about the importance of turning can encourage compliance and promote understanding of the necessity to prevent complications such as pressure ulcers and pneumonia.

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