ATI RN
ATI Gastrointestinal System
1. The client with ascites is scheduled for a paracentesis. The nurse is assisting the physician in performing the procedure. Which of the following positions will the nurse assist the client to assume for this procedure?
- A. Supine
- B. Left side-lying
- C. Right side-lying
- D. Upright position.
Correct answer: D
Rationale: An upright position allows the intestine to float posteriorly and helps prevent intestinal laceration during catheter insertion.
2. 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.
3. A patient has a severe exacerbation of ulcerative colitis. Long-term medications will probably include:
- A. Antacids.
- B. Antibiotics.
- C. Corticosteroids.
- D. Histamine2-receptor blockers.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Long-term medications for a severe exacerbation of ulcerative colitis probably include corticosteroids.
4. Sharon has cirrhosis of the liver and develops ascites. What intervention is necessary to decrease the excessive accumulation of serous fluid in her peritoneal cavity?
- A. Restrict fluids
- B. Encourage ambulation
- C. Increase sodium in the diet
- D. Give antacids as prescribed
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Restricting fluids is necessary to decrease the excessive accumulation of serous fluid in the peritoneal cavity for a patient with ascites due to cirrhosis.
5. The client being seen in a physician’s office has just been scheduled for a barium swallow the next day. The nurse writes down which of the following instructions for the client to follow before the test?
- A. Fast for 8 hours before the test.
- B. Eat a regular supper and breakfast.
- C. Continue to take all oral medications as scheduled.
- D. Monitor own bowel movement pattern for constipation
Correct answer: A
Rationale: A barium swallow is an x-ray study that uses a substance called barium for contrast to highlight abnormalities in the gastrointestinal tract. The client should fast for 8 to 12 hours before the test, depending on physician instructions. Most oral medications also are withheld before the test. After the procedure the nurse must monitor for constipation, which can occur as a result of the presence of barium in the gastrointestinal tract.
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