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. A healthcare professional is preparing to assess a 2-week-old newborn. Which of the following actions should the professional plan to take?
- A. Obtain the newborn's body temperature using a tympanic thermometer.
- B. FACES pain scale.
- C. Auscultate the newborn's apical pulse for 60 seconds.
- D. Measure the newborn's head circumference over the eyebrows and below the occipital prominence.
Correct answer: C: Auscultate the newborn's apical pulse for 60 seconds.
Rationale: Assessing the apical pulse in newborns is important to evaluate their cardiac function. The normal heart rate for a newborn is typically between 100-160 beats per minute. Auscultating the apical pulse for a full 60 seconds allows for an accurate assessment of the newborn's heart rate. This is a crucial component of the newborn assessment to ensure the baby's cardiovascular system is functioning within the expected range.
3. A client has deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Which of the following interventions should the nurse include in the plan of care?
- A. Apply cold compresses to the affected extremity.
- B. Massage the affected extremity every 2 hours.
- C. Elevate the affected extremity above the level of the heart.
- D. Keep the affected extremity dependent when sitting.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The correct intervention for a client with deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is to elevate the affected extremity above the level of the heart. This position promotes venous return, reduces swelling, and helps prevent complications such as pulmonary embolism. Applying cold compresses (choice A) can vasoconstrict blood vessels, potentially worsening the condition. Massaging the affected extremity (choice B) can dislodge the clot and lead to serious complications. Keeping the affected extremity dependent when sitting (choice D) can hinder venous return and exacerbate the DVT.
4. The nurse is teaching parents about the effects of media on childhood obesity. The nurse realizes the parents understand the teaching if they make which statements? (Select all that apply.)
- A. Advertising of unhealthy food can increase snacking
- B. Increased screen time may be related to unhealthy sleep
- C. There is a link between the amount of screen time and obesity
- D. All of the above
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Increased screen time is associated with unhealthy habits, such as poor sleep and snacking, which contribute to obesity, but it does not necessarily improve nutrition knowledge.
5. A client with angina is being taught how to use nitroglycerin transdermal ointment. Which instruction should the nurse include?
- A. Remove the prior dose before applying a new dose.
- B. Rub the ointment directly into the skin until it is no longer visible.
- C. Cover the applied ointment with a clean gauze pad.
- D. Apply the ointment to the same skin area each time.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct instruction is to remove the prior dose before applying a new one to prevent toxicity. Nitroglycerin ointment can cause adverse effects if accumulated doses are not removed. Rubbing the ointment until it's not visible or covering it with gauze may alter absorption. Applying it to the same area each time can lead to skin irritation or desensitization.
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