Nursing Elites

1. Which of the following definitions best describes diverticulosis?

• A. An inflamed outpouching of the intestine
• B. A noninflamed outpouching of the intestine
• C. The partial impairment of the forward flow of intestinal contents
• D. An abnormal protrusion of an organ through the structure that usually holds it

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'A noninflamed outpouching of the intestine.' Diverticulosis refers to the presence of small, bulging pouches (diverticula) that can form in the lining of the digestive system, especially the colon. These pouches are typically noninflamed. Choice A is incorrect because it describes diverticulitis, which is the inflammation of these pouches. Choice C is incorrect as it defines bowel obstruction, not diverticulosis. Choice D is incorrect as it refers to a hernia, not diverticulosis.

2. In a client with Crohn’s disease, which of the following symptoms should not be a direct result from antibiotic therapy?

• A. Decrease in bleeding
• B. Decrease in temperature
• C. Decrease in body weight
• D. Decrease in the number of stools

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Decrease in body weight is not a direct result of antibiotic therapy but may occur due to the underlying disease process.

3. A nurse orientee is preparing to insert a nasogastric tube, and a nurse educator is observing the procedure. Which of the following supplies if obtained by the nurse orientee would indicate a need for further education regarding this procedure?

• A. Half-inch or one-inch tape
• B. Oil-soluble lubricant
• C. A glass of tap water with a straw
• D. A 50-mL catheter tip syringe

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Water-soluble lubricant is used to lubricate 3 to 4 inches of the tube at the insertion end. An oil lubricant is not used because if the tube accidentally goes into the bronchus, pneumonia can develop. Half-inch tape is used to secure the tube after the correct placement is verified. A 50-mL catheter tip syringe is used to aspirate gastric contents to confirm placement. The client will be asked to take a sip of water through a straw to help with the passage of the tube.

4. You’re caring for Betty with liver cirrhosis. Which of the following assessment findings leads you to suspect hepatic encephalopathy in her?

• A. Asterixis
• B. Chvostek’s sign
• C. Trousseau’s sign
• D. Hepatojugular reflex

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Asterixis, a flapping tremor of the hands, is a sign of hepatic encephalopathy.

5. 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.

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