ATI RN
Gastrointestinal System Nursing Exam Questions Questions
Question 1 of 5
A nurse is assigned to a 40-year-old client who has a diagnosis of chronic pancreatitis. The nurse reviews the laboratory result, anticipating a laboratory report that indicates a serum amylase level of
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The normal serum amylase level is 25 to 151 IU/L. With chronic cases of pancreatitis, the rise in serum amylase levels usually does not exceed three times the normal value. In acute pancreatitis, the value may exceed five times the normal value. Options 1 and 2 are within normal limits. Option 3 is an extremely elevated level seen in acute pancreatitis.
Question 2 of 5
During an abdominal assessment, a nurse finds pulsation between the umbilicus and pubis on a client. What finding should be reported to the physician?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The presence of pulsation between the umbilicus and pubis could indicate an abdominal aortic aneurysm, which is a serious condition and should be reported to the physician promptly. A concave, midline umbilicus is a normal finding. Bowel sound frequency can vary widely and is not a cause for concern at 15 sounds per minute. Absence of a bruit is a normal finding in an abdominal assessment and does not require reporting.
Question 3 of 5
The home care nurse is visiting a client with a diagnosis of pernicious anemia that developed as a result of gastric surgery. The nurse instructs the client that because the stomach lining produces a decreased amount of intrinsic factor in this disorder, the client will need
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: A lack of intrinsic factor needed to absorb vitamin B12 occurs in pernicious anemia. Vitamin B12 is needed for the maturation of red blood cells. Vitamin B6 is not necessarily needed for pernicious anemia and can be taken orally. An antibiotic and antacids may be prescribed for certain types of gastric ulcers.
Question 4 of 5
A nurse teaches a preoperative client about the nasogastric tube that will be inserted in preparation for surgery. The nurse determines that the client understands when the tube will be removed in the postoperative period when the client states
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Nasogastric tubes are discontinued when normal function returns to the gastrointestinal tract. The tube will be removed before gastrointestinal healing. Food would not be administered unless bowel function returns. Although the physician determines when the nasogastric tube will be removed, option 4 does not determine effectiveness of teaching.
Question 5 of 5
A client with viral hepatitis is discussing with the nurse the need to avoid alcohol and states, 'I'm not sure I can avoid alcohol.' The most appropriate response is
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The most appropriate response in this situation is to seek clarification from the client by saying, 'I'm not sure that I don't understand. Would you please explain?' This response shows empathy and a willingness to listen, encouraging the client to elaborate on their concerns. False reassurance (Choice A) is not helpful as it dismisses the client's feelings. Suggesting to talk more with the doctor (Choice B) may deflect from addressing the client's immediate concerns. Expressing disbelief (Choice C) can create a barrier to open communication, making the client feel unsupported.
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