ATI RN
Gastrointestinal System Nursing Exam Questions
1. The nurse has given instructions to the client with an ileostomy about foods to eat to thicken the stool. The nurse determines that the client needs further instructions if the client stated to eat which of the following foods to make the stool less watery?
- A. Pasta
- B. Boiled rice
- C. Bran
- D. Low-fat cheese
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Foods that help to thicken the stool of the client with an ileostomy include pasta, boiled rice, and low-fat cheese. Bran is high in dietary fiber and thus will increase the output of watery stool by increasing propulsion through the bowel. Ileostomy output is liquid. Addition or elimination of various foods can help to thicken or loosen this liquid drainage.
2. Which of the following laboratory results would be expected in a client with peritonitis?
- A. Partial thromboplastin time above 100 seconds
- B. Hemoglobin level below 10 mg/dL
- C. Potassium level above 5.5 mEq/L
- D. White blood cell count above 15,000
Correct answer: D
Rationale: A white blood cell count above 15,000 is indicative of an infection, such as peritonitis.
3. You’re caring for Jane, a 57 y.o. patient with liver cirrhosis who develops ascites and requires paracentesis. Before her paracentesis, you instruct her to:
- A. Empty her bladder.
- B. Lie supine in bed.
- C. Remain NPO for 4 hours.
- D. Clean her bowels with an enema.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Before paracentesis, instruct the patient to empty her bladder to avoid bladder injury during the procedure.
4. After a subtotal gastrectomy, care of the client’s nasogastric tube and drainage system should include which of the following nursing interventions?
- A. Irrigate the tube with 30 ml of sterile water every hour, if needed.
- B. Reposition the tube if it is not draining well
- C. Monitor the client for N/V, and abdominal distention
- D. Turn the machine to high suction of the drainage is sluggish on low suction.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Monitoring the client for nausea, vomiting, and abdominal distention is crucial for ensuring proper functioning of the nasogastric tube and drainage system.
5. Which of the following tests can be performed to diagnose a hiatal hernia?
- A. Colonoscopy
- B. Lower GI series
- C. Barium swallow
- D. Abdominal x-rays
Correct answer: C
Rationale: A barium swallow is a diagnostic test that can visualize the esophagus, stomach, and small intestine to diagnose a hiatal hernia.
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