ATI RN
Gastrointestinal System Nursing Exam Questions
1. The nurse assesses the client's understanding of the relationship between body position and gastroesophageal reflux. Which response would indicate that the client understands measures to avoid problems with reflux while sleeping?
- A. I can elevate the foot of the bed 4 to 6 inches.
- B. I can sleep on my stomach with my head turned to the left.
- C. I can sleep on my back without a pillow under my head.
- D. I can elevate the head of the bed 4 to 6 inches.
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Sleeping with the head of the bed elevated encourages movement of food through the esophagus by gravity. By fostering esophageal acid clearance, gravity helps keep the acidic pepsin and alkaline biliary secretions from contacting the esophagus. Elevating the foot of the bed does not affect clearance of esophageal acid. Sleeping on the stomach with the head turned to the left will not decrease reflux incidence. Sleeping flat without a pillow under the head does not enhance clearance.
2. Which of the following statements are true about iron?
- A. The iron needs of vegans are 20% higher, and the needs of endurance athletes are 10% lower.
- B. It is one of the most common nutrient deficiencies in the world.
- C. Its absorption is increased by Vitamin C and during pregnancy.
- D. Its absorption is increased by tannic acid and calcium in milk.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Choice C is correct because iron absorption is indeed increased by Vitamin C and during pregnancy. The other choices are incorrect. Choice A is wrong as there are no universally accepted percentages for the iron needs of vegans and endurance athletes. Choice B is inaccurate as iron deficiency is actually one of the most common nutritional deficiencies worldwide. Choice D is incorrect because tannic acid and calcium in milk actually inhibit iron absorption rather than increasing it.
3. A nurse is preparing to administer a rectal suppository to a client. What action should the nurse take?
- A. Encourage the client to hold their breath as long as possible.
- B. Insert the suppository just past the anal sphincter.
- C. Lubricate the suppository and insert it 1.5 cm (0.6 in) into the rectum.
- D. Place the client in a Sims' position before inserting the suppository.
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The correct action the nurse should take when administering a rectal suppository is to place the client in a Sims' position. This position helps facilitate the proper administration of the suppository by allowing better access to the rectum. Encouraging the client to hold their breath as long as possible (Choice A) is unnecessary and not related to the administration of a rectal suppository. Inserting the suppository just past the anal sphincter (Choice B) is incorrect as it may not reach the rectum where it needs to be placed. Lubricating the suppository and inserting it 1.5 cm into the rectum (Choice C) is incorrect as the suppository needs to be inserted deeper into the rectum for proper absorption.
4. Which of the following is an indication for tracheostomy?
- A. Drainage of pleural effusion
- B. Hemorrhage
- C. Infections
- D. Acute respiratory failure
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Tracheostomy is a surgical procedure where an incision is made in the windpipe to help with breathing. Acute respiratory failure, which can occur due to various reasons such as upper airway obstruction, is a common indication for tracheostomy. While drainage of pleural effusion, hemorrhage, and infections may require medical intervention, they are not direct indications for a tracheostomy like acute respiratory failure.
5. What common symptom should be assessed in individuals with immunodeficiency?
- A. Anemia
- B. Recurrent infections
- C. Hypersensitivity
- D. Autoantibody production
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Recurrent infections are a hallmark symptom of immunodeficiency. Individuals with impaired immune systems are more susceptible to recurrent infections due to their compromised ability to fight off pathogens. Anemia (Choice A) is not a direct symptom of immunodeficiency but can be a consequence of chronic diseases. Hypersensitivity (Choice C) refers to exaggerated immune responses rather than impaired immune function. Autoantibody production (Choice D) is not typically a primary symptom of immunodeficiency but may be seen in certain autoimmune conditions.
Similar Questions
Access More Features
ATI Basic
- 50,000 Questions with answers
- All ATI courses Coverage
- 30 days access @ $69.99
ATI Basic
- 50,000 Questions with answers
- All ATI courses Coverage
- 90 days access @ $149.99