Nursing Elites

1. The nurse is caring for a client with a diagnosis of cirrhosis and is monitoring the client for signs of portal hypertension. Which initial sign, if noted in the client, indicates the presence of portal hypertension?

• A. Flat neck veins
• B. Hypotension
• C. Weak pulse
• D. Crackles on auscultation of the lungs

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Clinical signs and symptoms or portal hypertension are identical to those of heart failure and include jugular vein distention, lung crackles, and decreased perfusion to all organs. Initially, the client may have hypertension, flushed skin, and a bounding pulse.

2. A client is admitted to the hospital after vomiting bright red blood and is diagnosed with a bleeding duodenal ulcer. The client develops a sudden, sharp pain in the midepigastric area along with a rigid, boardlike abdomen. These clinical manifestations most likely indicate which of the following?

• A. An intestinal obstruction has developed
• B. Additional ulcers have developed
• C. The esophagus has become inflamed
• D. The ulcer has perforated

Correct answer: D

Rationale: A sudden, sharp pain in the midepigastric area along with a rigid, boardlike abdomen indicates that the ulcer has perforated.

3. Which of the following definitions best describes gastritis?

• A. Erosion of the gastric mucosa
• B. Inflammation of a diverticulum
• C. Inflammation of the gastric mucosa
• D. Reflux of stomach acid into the esophagus

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: 'Inflammation of the gastric mucosa.' Gastritis is characterized by inflammation of the stomach lining, specifically the gastric mucosa. This inflammation can be caused by various factors such as infections, medications, alcohol, or autoimmune diseases. Choice A, 'Erosion of the gastric mucosa,' is incorrect because erosion refers to the wearing away of tissue rather than inflammation. Choice B, 'Inflammation of a diverticulum,' is incorrect because gastritis specifically involves inflammation of the stomach lining, not a diverticulum. Choice D, 'Reflux of stomach acid into the esophagus,' describes gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), which is different from gastritis.

4. Jason, a 22 y.o. accident victim, requires an NG tube for feeding. What should you immediately do after inserting an NG tube for liquid enteral feedings?

• A. Aspirate for gastric secretions with a syringe.
• B. Begin feeding slowly to prevent cramping.
• C. Get an X-ray of the tip of the tube within 24 hours.
• D. Clamp off the tube until the feedings begin.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Immediately after inserting an NG tube for enteral feedings, aspirate for gastric secretions to confirm proper placement.

5. Glenda has cholelithiasis (gallstones). You expect her to complain of:

• A. Pain in the right upper quadrant, radiating to the shoulder.
• B. Pain in the right lower quadrant, with rebound tenderness.
• C. Pain in the left upper quadrant, with shortness of breath.
• D. Pain in the left lower quadrant, with mild cramping.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Patients with cholelithiasis often complain of pain in the right upper quadrant, radiating to the shoulder.

Similar Questions