ATI RN
Gastrointestinal System Nursing Exam Questions
1. The nurse has provided home care instructions to a client who had a subtotal gastrectomy. The nurse instructs the client regarding the signs and symptoms associated with dumping syndrome. Which of the following signs and symptoms, if identified by the client, indicates an understanding of this potential complication following gastrointestinal surgery?
- A. Hiccups and diarrhea
- B. Fatigue and abdominal pain
- C. Constipation and fever
- D. Diaphoresis and diarrhea
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Diaphoresis and diarrhea. Dumping syndrome occurs after gastric surgery when food moves quickly from the stomach to the intestine, causing fluid shifts and leading to symptoms like weakness, dizziness, diaphoresis, flushing, hypotension, abdominal pain, distension, hyperactive bowel sounds, and diarrhea. Choices A, B, and C do not reflect the typical signs and symptoms of dumping syndrome.
2. The nurse is caring for a client following a Billroth II procedure. On review of the postoperative orders, which of the following if prescribed, should the nurse question and verify?
- A. Irrigating the nasogastric tube
- B. Coughing and deep breathing exercises
- C. Leg exercises
- D. Early ambulation
Correct answer: A
Rationale: In a Billroth II procedure the proximal remnant of the stomach is anastomosed to the proximal jejunum. Patency of the nasogastric tube is critical for preventing the retention of gastric secretions. The nurse should never irrigate or reposition the gastric tube after gastric surgery, unless specifically ordered by the physician. In this situation the nurse should clarify the order. Coughing and deep breathing exercises, leg exercises, and early ambulation are appropriate postoperative interventions.
3. During the assessment of a client’s mouth, the nurse notes the absence of saliva. The client is also complaining of pain near the area of the ear. The client has been NPO for several days because of the insertion of an NG tube. Based on these findings, the nurse suspects that the client is developing which of the following mouth conditions?
- A. Stomatitis
- B. Oral candidiasis
- C. Parotitis
- D. Gingivitis
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C, Parotitis. Parotitis, inflammation of the parotid glands, can occur due to the absence of saliva and dehydration, often associated with being NPO and having an NG tube. Stomatitis (choice A) is inflammation of the oral mucosa, not specifically related to absent saliva. Oral candidiasis (choice B) is a fungal infection that can occur in the mouth, not directly related to the absence of saliva. Gingivitis (choice D) is inflammation of the gums and is not typically associated with the absence of saliva and dehydration.
4. Brenda, a 36 y.o. patient is on your floor with acute pancreatitis. Treatment for her includes:
- A. Continuous peritoneal lavage.
- B. Regular diet with increased fat.
- C. Nutritional support with TPN.
- D. Insertion of a T tube to drain the pancreas.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Treatment for acute pancreatitis includes nutritional support with TPN.
5. You’re discharging Nathaniel with hepatitis B. Which statement suggests understanding by the patient?
- A. Now I can never get hepatitis again.
- B. I can safely give blood after 3 months.
- C. I’ll never have a problem with my liver again, even if I drink alcohol.
- D. My family knows that if I get tired and start vomiting, I may be getting sick again.
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Understanding that family needs to be aware of symptoms that may indicate a recurrence of hepatitis B shows proper understanding by the patient.
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