ATI RN
Gastrointestinal System Nursing Exam Questions
1. 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.
2. The client being treated for esophageal varices has a Sengstaken-Blakemore tube inserted to control the bleeding. The most important assessment is for the nurse to:
- A. Check that the hemostat is on the bedside
- B. Monitor IV fluids for the shift
- C. Regularly assess respiratory status
- D. Check that the balloon is deflated on a regular basis
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Regularly assessing respiratory status is crucial when a Sengstaken-Blakemore tube is inserted to control bleeding in esophageal varices.
3. A client with suspected gastric cancer undergoes an endoscopy of the stomach. Which of the following assessments made after the procedure would indicate the development of a potential complication?
- A. The client complains of a sore throat
- B. The client displays signs of sedation
- C. The client experiences a sudden increase in temperature
- D. The client demonstrates a lack of appetite
Correct answer: C
Rationale: A sudden increase in temperature after an endoscopy can indicate a potential complication, such as perforation.
4. A nurse is preparing to remove a nasogastric tube from a client. The nurse would instruct the client to do which of the following just before the nurse removes the tube?
- A. To perform Valsalva’s maneuver
- B. To take hold and hold a deep breath
- C. To exhale
- D. To inhale and exhale quickly
Correct answer: B
Rationale: When the nurse removes a nasogastric tube, the client is instructed to take and hold a deep breath. This will be obstructed temporarily during the tube removal. This allows for easy withdrawal through the esophagus into the nose. The nurse removes the tube with one smooth, continuous pull.
5. Kevin has a history of peptic ulcer disease and vomits coffee-ground emesis. What does this indicate?
- A. He has fresh, active upper GI bleeding.
- B. He needs immediate saline gastric lavage.
- C. His gastric bleeding occurred 2 hours earlier.
- D. He needs a transfusion of packed RBC’s.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Coffee-ground emesis indicates that the gastric bleeding occurred 2 hours earlier.
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