ATI RN
Gastrointestinal System Nursing Exam Questions
1. The nurse is performing an assessment on a client with acute pancreatitis who was admitted to the hospital. Which of the following assessment questions most specifically would elicit information regarding the pain that is associated with acute pancreatitis?
- A. Does the pain in your abdomen radiate to your groin.
- B. Does the pain in your stomach radiate to the back?
- C. Does the pain in your stomach radiate to your lower middle abdomen?
- D. Does the pain in your lower abdomen radiate to the hip?
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The pain that is associated with acute pancreatitis is often severe and is located in the epigastric region and radiates to the back. Options 1, 3, and 4 are incorrect because they are not specific for the pain experienced by the client with pancreatitis.
2. A 53 y.o. patient has undergone a partial gastrectomy for adenocarcinoma of the stomach. An NG tube is in place and is connected to low continuous suction. During the immediate postoperative period, you expect the gastric secretions to be which color?
- A. Brown.
- B. Clear.
- C. Red.
- D. Yellow.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: During the immediate postoperative period after a partial gastrectomy, gastric secretions are expected to be red.
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. The nurse evaluates the client’s stoma during the initial post-op period. Which of the following observations should be reported immediately to the physician?
- A. The stoma is slightly edematous
- B. The stoma is dark red to purple
- C. The stoma oozes a small amount of blood
- D. The stoma does not expel stool
Correct answer: B
Rationale: A dark red to purple stoma may indicate compromised blood flow or ischemia, which requires immediate medical attention. This color change could be a sign of inadequate blood supply to the stoma tissue, leading to tissue damage or necrosis. Reporting this observation promptly is crucial to prevent further complications. Choices A, C, and D are not indicative of immediate medical concern. A slightly edematous stoma, oozing a small amount of blood, or not expelling stool may not be uncommon findings during the initial post-op period and can be managed without urgent intervention.
5. Nathaniel has severe pruritus due to having hepatitis B. What is the best intervention for his comfort?
- A. Give tepid baths.
- B. Avoid lotions and creams.
- C. Use hot water to increase vasodilation.
- D. Use cold water to decrease the itching.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Giving tepid baths can help soothe severe pruritus due to hepatitis B.
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