Gastrointestinal NCLEX Questions
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Question 1 of 5.
The client diagnosed with chronic pancreatitis is concerned about pain control. The nurse explains that the initial plan for chronic pancreatic pain control involves the administration of which of the following?
A. Opioid analgesics, such as morphine sulfate
B. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
C. Pancreatic enzymes with H2 blocker medications
D. Injection of medication directly into the nerves
Explanation: A. Opioid analgesics may be prescribed if pancreatic enzymes do not relieve pain. B. NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen, may be used to treat chronic pancreatic pain, but they are not the initial treatment and are usually not sufficient to control the pain. C. The initial pain control measures include exogenous pancreatic enzymes because pancreatic stimulation by food is thought to cause pain. Pancreatic enzymes are coupled with H2 blockers, which block the action of histamine on parietal cells in the stomach. H2 blockers are used because gastric acid destroys the lipase needed to break down fats. D. A nerve block relieves pain in about 50 percent of people who undergo the procedure, but this is not the initial measure for pain control.
Question 2 of 5.
The male client tells the nurse he has been experiencing 'heartburn' at night that awakens him. Which assessment question should the nurse ask?
A. How much weight have you gained recently?
B. What have you done to alleviate the heartburn?
C. Do you consume many milk and dairy products?
D. Have you been around anyone with a stomach virus?
Explanation: Asking what the client has done to alleviate the heartburn helps the nurse understand the severity, triggers, and any self-management strategies, which are critical for assessing GERD. Weight gain, dairy consumption, or exposure to a stomach virus are less directly related to the immediate assessment of heartburn symptoms.
Question 3 of 5.
The nurse is caring for an adult client diagnosed with GERD. Which condition is the most common comorbid disease associated with GERD?
A. Adult-onset asthma.
B. Pancreatitis.
C. Peptic ulcer disease.
D. Increased gastric emptying.
Explanation: GERD is commonly associated with adult-onset asthma due to acid reflux irritating the airways, leading to bronchospasm. Pancreatitis and peptic ulcer disease are less directly linked, and increased gastric emptying is not a typical comorbidity.
Question 4 of 5.
The nurse is performing an admission assessment on a client diagnosed with GERD. Which signs and symptoms would indicate GERD?
A. Pyrosis, water brash, and flatulence.
B. Weight loss, dysarthria, and diarrhea.
C. Decreased abdominal fat, proteinuria, and constipation.
D. Midepigastric pain, positive H. pylori test, and melena.
Explanation: Pyrosis (heartburn), water brash (regurgitation of sour fluid), and flatulence are classic symptoms of GERD due to acid reflux and gas buildup. The other options include symptoms more associated with other conditions like peptic ulcer disease or systemic disorders.
Question 5 of 5.
The client is diagnosed with an acute exacerbation of ulcerative colitis. Which intervention should the nurse implement?
A. Provide a low-residue diet.
B. Rest the client's bowel.
C. Assess vital signs daily.
D. Administer antacids orally.
Explanation: During an acute exacerbation of ulcerative colitis, resting the bowel (often via NPO status or clear liquids) reduces inflammation and irritation. A low-residue diet is used in stable phases, daily vital signs are routine, and antacids are irrelevant.
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