Med Surg Nursing- GI Disorders Exam Prep Test
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Med-Surg nurses are tasked with caring for adult patients who have come from surgeries and who are acutely ill. These practitioners give the utmost care to the patient that no other professional in the hospital can. The quiz below will test your knowledge of caring for a patient with GI disorders. Take this quiz and see if you understand what is needed.
Med Surg Nursing- GI Disorders Questions and Answers
- 1.
Which of the following is not an education tool required prior to an endoscopic procedure?
- A.
The purpose of the procedure
- B.
What to expect during the procedure
- C.
How long the procedure will take
- D.
Preparation required prior to the surgery
Correct Answer
C. How long the procedure will takeExplanation
The length of endoscopies varies and it is also the least important education tool for the patient.Rate this question:
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- 2.
Which patient is most susceptible to acquiring secondary stomatitis?
- A.
An AIDS patient suffering from pneumonia
- B.
An 65 y/o obese female
- C.
A 45 y/o male suffering from colon cancer
- D.
A 50 y/o male with CHF
Correct Answer
A. An AIDS patient suffering from pneumoniaExplanation
Secondary stomatitis results from infection by opportunistic viruses or bacteria. In this case, the patient with AIDS is, most likely, immunosuppressed.Rate this question:
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- 3.
When assessing a client during a routine checkup, the nurse reviews the history and notes that the client had aphthous stomatitis at the time of the last visit. Aphthous stomatitis is best described as:
- A.
A canker sore of the oral soft tissues
- B.
An acute stomach infection
- C.
Acid indigestion
- D.
An early sign of peptic ulcer disease
Correct Answer
A. A canker sore of the oral soft tissuesExplanation
Aphthous stomatitis refers to a canker sore of the oral soft tissues, including the lips, tongue, and inside of the cheeks.Rate this question:
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- 4.
Which item is unnecessary when examining the oral cavity of a patient with candidiasis?
- A.
Gloves
- B.
Penlight
- C.
Gown
- D.
Tongue blade
Correct Answer
C. GownExplanation
When examining the oral cavity of a patient with candidiasis, a gown is unnecessary. Candidiasis is a fungal infection that primarily affects the mucous membranes, such as the mouth. It does not pose a risk of bodily fluid exposure, so there is no need for a gown. However, gloves are necessary to prevent the spread of infection, a penlight is useful for proper visualization, and a tongue blade can help to examine the tongue and oral tissues.Rate this question:
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- 5.
Which of the following is an inappropriate nursing diagnosis for a client with malignant tumors of the oral cavity?
- A.
Impaired oral mucous membranes
- B.
Deficient fluid volume
- C.
Acute pain
- D.
Risk for ineffective airway clearance
Correct Answer
B. Deficient fluid volumeExplanation
The nursing diagnosis "Deficient fluid volume" is inappropriate for a client with malignant tumors of the oral cavity because it does not directly relate to the condition. Malignant tumors of the oral cavity primarily affect the tissues in the mouth, not the fluid volume in the body. Therefore, this diagnosis would not be relevant or helpful in addressing the client's needs.Rate this question:
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- 6.
The graduate nurse and her preceptor are establishing priorities for their morning assessments. Which client should they assess first?
- A.
The newly admitted client with acute abdominal pain
- B.
The client who needs an abdominal dressing changed (POD 3)
- C.
The client receiving continuous tube feedings who needs the tube-feeding residual checked
- D.
The sleeping client who received pain medication 1 hour ago
Correct Answer
A. The newly admitted client with acute abdominal painExplanation
The graduate nurse and her preceptor should assess the new admission with acute abdominal pain first because he just arrived on the floor and might be unstable. Next, they should change the abdominal dressing for the postoperative client or measure the feeding tube residual in the client with continuous tube feedings.Rate this question:
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- 7.
Which foods should a patient with GERD stay away from (multiple answers)?
- A.
Burger King double cheeseburger
- B.
Lettuce
- C.
Candy canes
- D.
Chocolate espresso
- E.
White bread
Correct Answer(s)
A. Burger King double cheeseburger
C. Candy canes
D. Chocolate espressoExplanation
Patients with GERD should avoid peppermint, alcohol, caffeinated beverages, chocolate, tea, and coffee.Rate this question:
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- 8.
To prevent gastroesophageal reflux in a client with hiatal hernia, the nurse should provide which discharge instruction?
- A.
Lie down after meals to promote digestion
- B.
Avoid coffee and alcoholic beverages
- C.
Take antacids with meals
- D.
Limit fluid intake with meals
Correct Answer
B. Avoid coffee and alcoholic beveragesExplanation
To prevent reflux of stomach acid into the esophagus, the nurse should advise the client to avoid foods and beverages that increase stomach acid, such as coffee and alcohol.Rate this question:
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- 9.
Which of the following is not a common symptom of GERD?
- A.
Dyspepsia
- B.
Regurgitation
- C.
Dysphagia
- D.
Hyposalivation
Correct Answer
D. HyposalivationExplanation
Hypersalivation, aka water brash, occurs in response to reflux, not hyposalivation.Rate this question:
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- 10.
Which drug class does not treat GERD?
- A.
Antacids
- B.
Histamine receptor antagonists
- C.
Beta blockers
- D.
Proton pump inhibitors
Correct Answer
C. Beta blockersExplanation
Beta-blockers do not treat GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) because they primarily work to block the effects of adrenaline on the heart and blood vessels. They are commonly used to treat conditions such as high blood pressure and heart disease, but they do not have any direct effect on reducing stomach acid production or relieving the symptoms of GERD. Antacids, histamine receptor antagonists, and proton pump inhibitors are all commonly used to treat GERD by reducing stomach acid production or neutralizing the acid already present in the stomach.Rate this question:
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- 11.
Which of the following has the least important role in terms of peptic ulcer formation?
- A.
Acid
- B.
NSAID use
- C.
Prescence of H. pylori
- D.
Hypertension
Correct Answer
D. HypertensionExplanation
Hypertension, or high blood pressure, has the least important role in terms of peptic ulcer formation compared to the other options. Peptic ulcers are mainly caused by factors such as excessive acid production, the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and the presence of Helicobacter pylori bacteria. Hypertension is not directly linked to peptic ulcers, although it may contribute to the overall health of the gastrointestinal system. However, it is not a primary factor in the formation of peptic ulcers.Rate this question:
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- 12.
A client is admitted to the health care facility with a diagnosis of a bleeding gastric ulcer. The nurse expects this client's stools to be:
- A.
Coffee-ground-like
- B.
Clay-colored
- C.
Black and tarry
- D.
Bright red
Correct Answer
C. Black and tarryExplanation
Black, tarry stools are a sign of bleeding high in the GI tract, as from a gastric ulcer, and result from the action of digestive enzymes on the blood.Rate this question:
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- 13.
Which diagnostic test would be used first to evaluate a client with upper GI bleeding?
- A.
Endoscopy
- B.
Upper GI series
- C.
Hemoglobin (Hb) levels and hematocrit (HCT
- D.
Arteriography
Correct Answer
C. Hemoglobin (Hb) levels and hematocrit (HCTExplanation
Hemoglobin and hematocrit are typically performed first in clients with upper GI bleeding to evaluate the extent of blood loss. Endoscopy is then performed to directly visualize the upper GI tract and locate the source of bleeding.Rate this question:
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- 14.
Which of the following isn't a complication of peptic ulcer disease?
- A.
Perforation
- B.
GI bleeding
- C.
Pyloric obstruction
- D.
Pain
Correct Answer
D. PainExplanation
Pain is a symptom of PUD, not a complicationRate this question:
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- 15.
Which of the following are goals of drug therapy in the treatment of PUD (multiple answers)?
- A.
Provide pain relief
- B.
Prevent recurrence
- C.
Heal ulcerations
- D.
Eradicate H. pylori infection
Correct Answer(s)
A. Provide pain relief
B. Prevent recurrence
C. Heal ulcerations
D. Eradicate H. pylori infectionExplanation
All are goalsRate this question:
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- 16.
An elderly client with Alzheimer's disease begins supplemental tube feedings through a gastrostomy tube to provide adequate calorie intake. The nurse should be concerned most with the potential for:
- A.
Hyperglycemia
- B.
Fluid volume excess
- C.
Aspiration
- D.
Constipation
Correct Answer
C. AspirationExplanation
Of the choices listed, aspiration is the most serious potential complication of tube feedings. Dehydration — not fluid volume excess — is a concern because of decreased free water intake.Rate this question:
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- 17.
A client who underwent abdominal surgery who has a nasogastric (NG) tube in place begins to complain of abdominal pain that he describes as "feeling full and uncomfortable." Which assessment should the nurse perform first?
- A.
Measure abdominal girth
- B.
Auscultate bowel sounds
- C.
Assess patency of the NG tube
- D.
Assess vital signs
Correct Answer
C. Assess patency of the NG tubeExplanation
When an NG tube is no longer patent, stomach contents collect in the stomach giving the client a sensation of fullnessRate this question:
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- 18.
To verify the placement of a gastric feeding tube, the nurse should perform at least two tests. One test requires instilling air into the tube with a syringe and listening with a stethoscope for air passing into the stomach. Which is another test method?
- A.
Aspiration of gastric contents and testing for a pH less than 6
- B.
Instillation of 30 ml of water while listening with a stethoscope
- C.
Cessation of reflex gagging
- D.
Ensuring proper measurement of the tube before insertion
Correct Answer
A. Aspiration of gastric contents and testing for a pH less than 6Explanation
Aspiration of gastric secretions with a pH less than 6 indicates placement in the stomach.Rate this question:
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- 19.
Which of the following would you NOT teach a patient recently diagnosed with irritable bowel syndrome?
- A.
Identifying food intolerances and needed dietary modifications
- B.
Decreasing fiber intake
- C.
Avoiding coffee and and limiting alcohol intake
- D.
Stress management
Correct Answer
B. Decreasing fiber intakeExplanation
Fiber supplements are usually recommendedRate this question:
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- 20.
Which of the following are appropriate nursing diagnoses for patients with colorectal cancer (multiple answers)?
- A.
Altered level of consciousness
- B.
Disturbed body image
- C.
Deficient fluid volume
- D.
Acute/ chronic pain
Correct Answer(s)
B. Disturbed body image
C. Deficient fluid volume
D. Acute/ chronic painExplanation
The appropriate nursing diagnoses for patients with colorectal cancer include disturbed body image, deficient fluid volume, and acute/chronic pain. Colorectal cancer can have a significant impact on a patient's body image, causing distress and a negative self-perception. Deficient fluid volume may occur due to factors such as vomiting, diarrhea, or inadequate intake. Acute or chronic pain is common in colorectal cancer patients due to the disease itself or as a result of treatments such as surgery or radiation. These nursing diagnoses address important aspects of care for patients with colorectal cancer.Rate this question:
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- 21.
Which foods should patients with colorectal cancer avoid (multiple answers)?
- A.
Fish and chips
- B.
Boiled carrots and broccoli
- C.
Beef and cabbage
- D.
Concentrated sweets
- E.
Whole-grain products
Correct Answer(s)
A. Fish and chips
C. Beef and cabbage
D. Concentrated sweetsExplanation
Patients should avoid red meat, animal fat, fatty foods, fried meats/ fish, and concentrated sweets.Rate this question:
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- 22.
A client has undergone a colon resection. While turning him, wound dehiscence with evisceration occurs. The nurse's first response is to:
- A.
Call the physician
- B.
Place saline-soaked sterile dressings on the wound
- C.
Take a blood pressure and pulse
- D.
Take a blood pressure and pulse
Correct Answer
B. Place saline-soaked sterile dressings on the woundExplanation
The nurse should first place saline-soaked sterile dressings on the open wound to prevent tissue drying and possible infection. Then the nurse should call the physician and take the client's vital signs.Rate this question:
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- 23.
Which is the least likely to cause constipation?
- A.
High fiber intake
- B.
Being over 75
- C.
Overuse of laxatives
- D.
Immobilization
Correct Answer
A. High fiber intakeExplanation
High fiber intake is least likely to cause constipation because fiber adds bulk to the stool and helps to regulate bowel movements. It promotes regularity and prevents constipation by softening the stool and allowing it to pass through the digestive system more easily. On the other hand, being over 75, overuse of laxatives, and immobilization can all contribute to constipation.Rate this question:
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- 24.
A 72-year-old client seeks help for chronic constipation. This is a common problem for elderly clients due to several factors related to aging. Which is one such factor?
- A.
Increased intestinal motility
- B.
Decreased abdominal strength
- C.
Increased gastric aid production
- D.
Hyperactive bowel sounds
Correct Answer
B. Decreased abdominal strengthExplanation
Decreased abdominal strength, muscle tone of the intestinal wall, and motility all contribute to chronic constipation in the elderly.Rate this question:
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- 25.
Which outcome indicates effective client teaching to prevent constipation?
- A.
The client verbalizes consumption of low-fiber foods
- B.
The client maintains a sedentary lifestyle
- C.
The client limits water intake to three glasses per day
- D.
The client reports engaging in a regular exercise regimen
Correct Answer
D. The client reports engaging in a regular exercise regimenExplanation
A regular exercise regimen promotes peristalsis and contributes to regular bowel elimination patterns. A low-fiber diet, a sedentary lifestyle, and limited water intake would predispose the client to constipation.Rate this question:
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- 26.
In regards to appendicitis, the location of pain in the lower, right abdominal quadrant is called:
- A.
Kernig's sign
- B.
Mc Burney's point
- C.
Brudzinski's point
- D.
Schrute's point
Correct Answer
B. Mc Burney's pointExplanation
Mc Burney's point is the correct answer for the location of pain in the lower, right abdominal quadrant in relation to appendicitis. This point is located approximately two-thirds of the distance between the umbilicus and the anterior superior iliac spine. It is a key landmark used by healthcare professionals to identify the potential presence of appendicitis.Rate this question:
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- 27.
When preparing a client, age 50, for surgery to treat appendicitis, the nurse formulates a nursing diagnosis of Risk for infection related to inflammation, perforation, and surgery. What is the rationale for choosing this nursing diagnosis?
- A.
The appendectomy surgery is very invasive and it puts the client at a risk for infection
- B.
Obstruction of the appendix reduces arterial flow, leading to ischemia, inflammation, and rupture of the appendix.
- C.
Infection of the appendix diminishes necrotic arterial blood flow and increases venous drainage
- D.
The appendix may develop gangrene and rupture, especially in a middle-aged client
Correct Answer
B. Obstruction of the appendix reduces arterial flow, leading to ischemia, inflammation, and rupture of the appendix.Explanation
A client with appendicitis is at risk for infection related to inflammation, perforation, and surgery because obstruction of the appendix causes mucus fluid to build upRate this question:
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- 28.
Which of the following assessment findings suggests early appendicitis?
- A.
Nausea and vomiting
- B.
Periumbilical pain
- C.
Tense positioning
- D.
Abdominal rigdity
Correct Answer
B. Periumbilical painExplanation
Periumbilical pain is the initial symptom, followed by nausea and vomiting.Rate this question:
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- 29.
Which of the following is not an appropriate nursing diagnosis related to appendicitis?
- A.
Disturbed body image
- B.
Acute pain
- C.
Risk for infection r/t rupture
- D.
Deficient knowledge
Correct Answer
A. Disturbed body imageExplanation
Disturbed body image is not an appropriate nursing diagnosis related to appendicitis because it refers to a person's perception of their own physical appearance, which is not directly affected by appendicitis. Appendicitis is characterized by symptoms such as acute pain, risk for infection due to rupture, and a potential lack of knowledge about the condition. Therefore, disturbed body image does not align with the specific physiological and psychological effects of appendicitis.Rate this question:
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- 30.
While preparing a client for cholecystectomy, the nurse explains that incentive spirometry will be used after surgery primarily to:
- A.
Increase respiratory effectiveness.
- B.
Eliminate the need for nasogastric intubation.
- C.
Improve nutritional status during recovery.
- D.
Decrease the amount of postoperative analgesia needed.
Correct Answer
A. Increase respiratory effectiveness.Explanation
The high abdominal incision used in a cholecystectomy interferes with respirations postoperatively, increasing the risk of atelectasis.Rate this question:
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- 31.
Which task can the nurse delegate to a nursing assistant?
- A.
Irrigating a nasogastric (NG) tube
- B.
Assisting a client who had surgery three days ago walk down the hallway
- C.
Helping a client who just returned from surgery to the bathroom
- D.
Administering an antacid to a client complaining of heartburn
Correct Answer
B. Assisting a client who had surgery three days ago walk down the hallwayExplanation
Because the client had surgery three days ago, the nurse can safely delegate the task of helping the client walk down the hallway.Rate this question:
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- 32.
How are ulcerative colitis and Chron's disease definitively diagnosed?
- A.
EGD
- B.
CBC
- C.
Stool sample
- D.
Colonoscopy
Correct Answer
D. ColonoscopyExplanation
Ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease are both inflammatory bowel diseases that can have similar symptoms. To definitively diagnose these conditions, a colonoscopy is often performed. During a colonoscopy, a long, flexible tube with a camera is inserted into the colon to examine the lining and detect any abnormalities or inflammation. This procedure allows for direct visualization and biopsy of the affected areas, providing a more accurate diagnosis compared to other tests such as EGD (esophagogastroduodenoscopy), CBC (complete blood count), or stool sample analysis. Therefore, colonoscopy is the preferred method for definitive diagnosis of ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease.Rate this question:
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- 33.
What is toxic megacolon (mulitple answers)?
- A.
A complication of ulcerative colitis
- B.
Dilation and paralysis of the colon
- C.
A fistula
- D.
A risk factor for pancreatitis
Correct Answer(s)
A. A complication of ulcerative colitis
B. Dilation and paralysis of the colonExplanation
Toxic megacolon is a condition that occurs as a complication of ulcerative colitis. It is characterized by the dilation and paralysis of the colon, leading to a significant enlargement of the colon. This condition can be life-threatening and requires immediate medical intervention. It is not a fistula, which is an abnormal connection between two organs, and it is not a risk factor for pancreatitis, which is inflammation of the pancreas.Rate this question:
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- 34.
A 28-year-old client is admitted with inflammatory bowel syndrome (Crohn's disease). Which therapies should the nurse expect to be part of the care plan? Check all that apply
- A.
Lactulose therapy
- B.
High-fiber diet
- C.
High-protein milkshakes
- D.
Corticosteroid therapy
- E.
Antidiarrheal medications
Correct Answer(s)
D. Corticosteroid therapy
E. Antidiarrheal medicationsExplanation
Corticosteroids, such as prednisone, reduce the signs and symptoms of diarrhea, pain, and bleeding by decreasing inflammation. Antidiarrheals, such as diphenoxylate (Lomotil), combat diarrhea by decreasing peristalsis.Rate this question:
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- 35.
A client is diagnosed with Crohn's disease after undergoing two weeks of testing. The client's boss calls the medical-surgical floor requesting to speak with the nurse manager. He expresses concern over the client and explains that he must know the client's diagnosis for insurance purposes. Which response by the nurse is best?
- A.
"Sure, I understand how demanding insurance companies can be."
- B.
"I appreciate your concern, but I can't give out any information."
- C.
"Why don't you come in, and we can further discuss this issue."
- D.
"He has been diagnosed with Crohn's Disease."
Correct Answer
B. "I appreciate your concern, but I can't give out any information."Explanation
The nurse may not release any confidential information to unauthorized individuals, such as the client's boss. Options 1, 3, and 4 breech client confidentiality.Rate this question:
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- 36.
A client with a recent history of rectal bleeding is being prepared for a colonoscopy. How should the nurse position the client for this test initially?
- A.
Lying on the right side with legs straight
- B.
Lying on the left side with knees bent
- C.
Prone with the torso elevated
- D.
Bent over with hands touching the floor
Correct Answer
B. Lying on the left side with knees bentExplanation
For a colonoscopy, the nurse initially should position the client on the left side with knees bent to allow proper visualization of the large intestine.Rate this question:
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- 37.
A client has a newly created colostomy. After participating in counseling with the nurse and receiving support from the spouse, the client decides to change the colostomy pouch unaided. Which behavior suggests that the client is beginning to accept the change in body image?
- A.
The client asks his wife to leave the room
- B.
The client closes the eyes when the abdomen is exposed
- C.
The client avoids talking about the recent surgery
- D.
The client touches the altered body part
Correct Answer
D. The client touches the altered body partExplanation
By touching the altered body part, the client recognizes the body change and establishes that the change is real. Closing the eyes, not looking at the abdomen when the colostomy is exposed, or avoiding talking about the surgery reflects denial.Rate this question:
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Our quizzes are rigorously reviewed, monitored and continuously updated by our expert board to maintain accuracy, relevance, and timeliness.
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Current Version
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Mar 07, 2024Quiz Edited by
ProProfs Editorial Team
Expert Reviewed by
Allison Martin -
Dec 01, 2008Quiz Created by
Tyraikaika
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