ATI RN
Gastrointestinal System Nursing Exam Questions
1. The nurse is caring for a client with an exacerbation of ulcerative colitis. Which of the following nursing measures should be included in the client's plan of care?
- A. Encourage regular use of antidiarrheal medications.
- B. Incorporate frequent rest periods into the client's schedule.
- C. Have the client maintain a high-fiber diet.
- D. Wear a gown when providing direct client care.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: It is important for the client to have frequent rest periods. Repeated episodes of diarrhea interrupt sleep patterns, and poor nutrition may also cause the client to feel weak. If the client is experiencing a severe exacerbation of ulcerative colitis, bed rest may be ordered. Antidiarrheal medications can be used selectively in ulcerative colitis but are not recommended for regular use as they can lead to colonic dilation. The client should maintain a low-residue, high-calorie, caffeine-free diet.
2. You’re assessing the stoma of a patient with a healthy, well-healed colostomy. You expect the stoma to appear:
- A. Pale, pink and moist
- B. Red and moist
- C. Dark or purple colored
- D. Dry and black
Correct answer: B
Rationale: A healthy, well-healed colostomy stoma should appear red and moist.
3. A client with a peptic ulcer is scheduled for a vagotomy. The client asks the nurse about the purpose of this procedure. The nurse tells the client that the procedure:
- A. Decreases food absorption in the stomach
- B. Heals the gastric mucosa
- C. Halts stress reactions
- D. Reduces the stimulus to acid secretions
Correct answer: D
Rationale: A vagotomy reduces the stimulus to acid secretions by cutting the vagus nerve, which innervates the stomach.
4. Your teaching Anthony how to use his new colostomy. How much skin should remain exposed between the stoma and the ring of the appliance?
- A. 1/16â€
- B. 1/4″
- C. 1/2â€
- D. 1â€
Correct answer: A
Rationale: When teaching a patient how to use a colostomy, only 1/16†of skin should remain exposed between the stoma and the ring of the appliance to prevent skin irritation.
5. Which of the following areas is the most common site of fistulas in clients with Crohn’s disease?
- A. Anorectal
- B. Ileum
- C. Rectovaginal
- D. Transverse colon
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The anorectal area is the most common site of fistulas in clients with Crohn's disease.
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