Nursing Elites

1. The nurse has inserted a nasogastric tube to the level of the oropharynx and has repositioned the client’s head in a flexed-forward position. The client has been asked to begin swallowing. The nurse starts slowly to advance the nasogastric tube with each swallow. The client begins to cough, gag, and choke. Which nursing action would least likely result in proper tube insertion and promote client relaxation?

• A. Continuing to advance the tube to the desired distance
• B. Pulling the tube back slightly
• C. Checking the back of the pharynx using a tongue blade and flashlight.
• D. Instructing the client to breathe slowly and take sips of water.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: As the nasogastric tube is passed through the oropharynx, the gag reflex is stimulated, which may cause coughing, gagging, or choking. Instead of passing through to the esophagus, the nasogastric tube may coil around itself in the oropharynx, or it may enter the larynx and obstruct the airway, pulling the tube back slightly will remove it from the larynx; advancing the tube might position it in the trachea. Swallowing closes the epiglottis over the trachea and helps move the tube into the esophagus. Slow breathing helps the client relax to reduce the gag response. The nurse should check the back of the client’s throat to note if the tube has coiled. The tube may be advanced after the client relaxes.

2. Which of the following associated disorders may a client with ulcerative colitis exhibit?

• A. Gallstones
• B. Hydronephrosis
• C. Nephrolithiasis
• D. Toxic megacolon

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Toxic megacolon is a severe complication that may be exhibited by a client with ulcerative colitis.

3. Which goal of the client’s care should take priority during the first days of hospitalization for an exacerbation of ulcerative colitis?

• A. Promoting self-care and independence
• B. Managing diarrhea
• C. Maintaining adequate nutrition
• D. Promoting rest and comfort

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Managing diarrhea should take priority during the first days of hospitalization for an exacerbation of ulcerative colitis.

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. A client has been diagnosed with gastroesophageal reflux disease. The nurse interprets that the client has dysfunction of which of the following parts of the digestive system?

• A. Chief cells of the stomach
• B. Parietal cells of the stomach
• C. Lower esophageal sphincter
• D. Upper esophageal sphincter

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The lower esophageal sphincter is a functional sphincter that normally remains closed except when food or fluids are swallowed. If relaxation of this sphincter occurs, the client could experience symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease.

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