Med Surg Nursing- GI Disorders Exam Prep Test

Reviewed by Allison Martin
Allison Martin, BSN |
School Nurse
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Allison Martin holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from Drexel University's College of Nursing and Health Professions, specializing in neuroscience and cardiac care. She is dedicated to providing high-quality care and support to the school community as a School Nurse at St. Bernard's School, drawing on over 20 years of invaluable nursing experience.
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1. 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?

Explanation

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.

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About This Quiz
Med Surg Nursing- GI Disorders Exam Prep Test - Quiz

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... see morepatient 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. see less

2. While preparing a client for cholecystectomy, the nurse explains that incentive spirometry will be used after surgery primarily to:

Explanation

The high abdominal incision used in a cholecystectomy interferes with respirations postoperatively, increasing the risk of atelectasis.

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3. 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?

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.

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4. Which of the following has the least important role in terms of peptic ulcer formation?

Explanation

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.

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5. 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?

Explanation

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.

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6. Which item is unnecessary when examining the oral cavity of a patient with candidiasis?

Explanation

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.

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7. A client has undergone a colon resection. While turning him, wound dehiscence with evisceration occurs. The nurse's first response is to:

Explanation

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.

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8. Which outcome indicates effective client teaching to prevent constipation?

Explanation

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.

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9. 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?  

Explanation

Decreased abdominal strength, muscle tone of the intestinal wall, and motility all contribute to chronic constipation in the elderly.

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10. Which drug class does not treat GERD?

Explanation

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.

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11. 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?

Explanation

Aspiration of gastric secretions with a pH less than 6 indicates placement in the stomach.

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12. To prevent gastroesophageal reflux in a client with hiatal hernia, the nurse should provide which discharge instruction?

Explanation

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.

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13. Which of the following would you NOT teach a patient recently diagnosed with irritable bowel syndrome?

Explanation

Fiber supplements are usually recommended

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14. Which task can the nurse delegate to a nursing assistant?

Explanation

Because the client had surgery three days ago, the nurse can safely delegate the task of helping the client walk down the hallway.

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15. The graduate nurse and her preceptor are establishing priorities for their morning assessments. Which client should they assess first?

Explanation

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.

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16. In regards to appendicitis, the location of pain in the lower, right abdominal quadrant is called:

Explanation

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.

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17. Which of the following is not a common symptom of GERD?

Explanation

Hypersalivation, aka water brash, occurs in response to reflux, not hyposalivation.

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18. 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:

Explanation

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.

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19. 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:

Explanation

Aphthous stomatitis refers to a canker sore of the oral soft tissues, including the lips, tongue, and inside of the cheeks.

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20. Which of the following is not an appropriate nursing diagnosis related to appendicitis?

Explanation

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.

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21. Which of the following is not an education tool required prior to an endoscopic procedure?

Explanation

The length of endoscopies varies and it is also the least important education tool for the patient.

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22. How are ulcerative colitis and Chron's disease definitively diagnosed?

Explanation

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.

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23. Which of the following is an inappropriate nursing diagnosis for a client with malignant tumors of the oral cavity?

Explanation

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.

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24. Which is the least likely to cause constipation?

Explanation

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.

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25. Which patient is most susceptible to acquiring secondary stomatitis?

Explanation

Secondary stomatitis results from infection by opportunistic viruses or bacteria. In this case, the patient with AIDS is, most likely, immunosuppressed.

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26. 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:

Explanation

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.

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27. 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?

Explanation

When an NG tube is no longer patent, stomach contents collect in the stomach giving the client a sensation of fullness

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28. Which foods should a patient with GERD stay away from (multiple answers)?

Explanation

Patients with GERD should avoid peppermint, alcohol, caffeinated beverages, chocolate, tea, and coffee.

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29. 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?

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 up

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30. Which of the following assessment findings suggests early appendicitis?

Explanation

Periumbilical pain is the initial symptom, followed by nausea and vomiting.

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31. Which of the following are appropriate nursing diagnoses for patients with colorectal cancer (multiple answers)?

Explanation

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.

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32. Which diagnostic test would be used first to evaluate a client with upper GI bleeding?

Explanation

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.

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33. What is toxic megacolon (mulitple answers)?

Explanation

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.

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34. Which foods should patients with colorectal cancer avoid (multiple answers)?

Explanation

Patients should avoid red meat, animal fat, fatty foods, fried meats/ fish, and concentrated sweets.

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35. Which of the following are goals of drug therapy in the treatment of PUD (multiple answers)?

Explanation

All are goals

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36. Which of the following isn't a complication of peptic ulcer disease?

Explanation

Pain is a symptom of PUD, not a complication

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37. 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 

Explanation

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.

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Allison Martin |BSN |
School Nurse
Allison Martin holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from Drexel University's College of Nursing and Health Professions, specializing in neuroscience and cardiac care. She is dedicated to providing high-quality care and support to the school community as a School Nurse at St. Bernard's School, drawing on over 20 years of invaluable nursing experience.

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A client has a newly created colostomy. After participating in...
While preparing a client for cholecystectomy, the nurse explains that...
A client is diagnosed with Crohn's disease after undergoing two weeks...
Which of the following has the least important role in terms of peptic...
A client with a recent history of rectal bleeding is being prepared...
Which item is unnecessary when examining the oral cavity of a patient...
A client has undergone a colon resection. While turning him, wound...
Which outcome indicates effective client teaching to prevent...
A 72-year-old client seeks help for chronic constipation. This is a...
Which drug class does not treat GERD?
To verify the placement of a gastric feeding tube, the nurse should...
To prevent gastroesophageal reflux in a client with hiatal hernia, the...
Which of the following would you NOT teach a patient recently...
Which task can the nurse delegate to a nursing assistant?
The graduate nurse and her preceptor are establishing priorities for...
In regards to appendicitis, the location of pain in the lower, right...
Which of the following is not a common symptom of GERD?
A client is admitted to the health care facility with a diagnosis of a...
When assessing a client during a routine checkup, the nurse reviews...
Which of the following is not an appropriate nursing diagnosis related...
Which of the following is not an education tool required prior to an...
How are ulcerative colitis and Chron's disease definitively diagnosed?
Which of the following is an inappropriate nursing diagnosis for a...
Which is the least likely to cause constipation?
Which patient is most susceptible to acquiring secondary stomatitis?
An elderly client with Alzheimer's disease begins supplemental tube...
A client who underwent abdominal surgery who has a nasogastric (NG)...
Which foods should a patient with GERD stay away from (multiple...
When preparing a client, age 50, for surgery to treat appendicitis,...
Which of the following assessment findings suggests early...
Which of the following are appropriate nursing diagnoses for patients...
Which diagnostic test would be used first to evaluate a client with...
What is toxic megacolon (mulitple answers)?
Which foods should patients with colorectal cancer avoid (multiple...
Which of the following are goals of drug therapy in the treatment of...
Which of the following isn't a complication of peptic ulcer disease?
A 28-year-old client is admitted with inflammatory bowel syndrome...
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