Nursing Elites

1. The nurse is reviewing the record of a client with Crohn’s disease. Which of the following stool characteristics would the nurse expect to note documented in the client’s record?

• A. Chronic constipation
• B. Diarrhea
• C. Constipation alternating with diarrhea
• D. Stool constantly oozing from the rectum

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Crohn’s disease is characterized by nonbloody diarrhea of usually not more than four to five stools daily. Over time, the diarrhea episodes increase in frequency, duration, and severity. Chronic constipation (Choice A), constipation alternating with diarrhea (Choice C), and stool constantly oozing from the rectum (Choice D) are not characteristics typically associated with Crohn’s disease.

2. The most important pathophysiologic factor contributing to the formation of esophageal varices is:

• A. Decreased prothrombin formation
• B. Decreased albumin formation by the liver
• C. Portal hypertension
• D. Increased central venous pressure

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Portal hypertension is the most important pathophysiologic factor contributing to the formation of esophageal varices.

3. You’re doing preoperative teaching with Gertrude who has ulcerative colitis who needs surgery to create an ileoanal reservoir. Which information do you include?

• A. A reservoir is created that exits through the abdominal wall.
• B. A second surgery is required 12 months after the first surgery.
• C. A permanent ileostomy is created.
• D. The surgery occurs in two stages.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The surgery to create an ileoanal reservoir occurs in two stages.

4. Lactulose (Chronulac) is prescribed for a client with a diagnosis of hepatic encephalopathy. The nurse would determine that this medication has had a therapeutic effect if which of the following is noted?

• A. Increased red blood cell count
• B. Decreased serum ammonia level
• C. Increased protein level
• D. Decreased white blood cell level

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Lactulose is prescribed for the client with hepatic encephalopathy to reduce bacterial breakdown of protein in the bowel. The medication creates an acidic environment in the bowel and causes the ammonia to leave the bloodstream and enter the colon. Ammonia then becomes trapped in the bowel. Lactulose also has a laxative effect that allows for the elimination of the ammonia.

5. Dark, tarry stools indicate bleeding in which location of the GI tract?

• A. Upper colon.
• B. Lower colon.
• C. Upper GI tract.
• D. Small intestine.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Dark, tarry stools indicate bleeding in the upper GI tract.

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