Question 1

The nurse is interviewing a 40-year-old client and obtains information about the following client problems. Which of the following information is most important to communicate to the health care provider?

Accepted Answer

A) The client had an appendectomy at age 17. 
B) The client smokes a pack/day of cigarettes. 
C) The client has a history of frequent constipation. 
D) The client has recently noticed blood in the stools.

Question 2

The nurse is assessing a client with colorectal cancer. Which of the following symptoms should the nurse expect to assess? (Select all that apply.)

Accepted Answer

A) Weight gain 
B) Early satiety 
C) Right shoulder pain 
D) Rectal bleeding 
E) Decreased flatus

Question 3

Which of the following actions should the nurse take first when a client calls the clinic complaining of diarrhea of 24 hours' duration?

Accepted Answer

A) Ask the client to describe the character of the stools and any associated symptoms. 
B) Inform the client that laboratory testing of blood and stool specimens will be necessary. 
C) Suggest that the client drink clear liquid fluids with electrolytes, such as Gatorade or Pedialyte. 
D) Advise the client to use over-the-counter loperamide to slow gastrointestinal (GI) motility.

Question 4

Which of the following instructions should the nurse include in discharge teaching for a client who has had a hemorrhoidectomy at an outpatient surgical centre?

Accepted Answer

A) Maintain a low-residue diet until the surgical area is healed. 
B) Use ice packs on the perianal area to relieve pain and swelling. 
C) Take prescribed pain medications before a bowel movement is expected. 
D) Delay having a bowel movement for several days until healing has occurred.

Question 5

The nurse is caring for a critically ill client who develops incontinence of watery stools. What of the following actions is best for the nurse to take to prevent complications associated with ongoing incontinence?

Accepted Answer

A) Insert a rectal tube. 
B) Use incontinence briefs. 
C) Apply a perianal pouch. 
D) Assist the client to a bedside commode at frequent intervals.

Question 6

The nurse is interviewing a client with abdominal pain and possible irritable bowel syndrome. Which of the following questions is most important for the nurse to ask?

Accepted Answer

A) "Have you been passing a lot of gas?" 
B) "What foods affect your bowel patterns?" 
C) "Do you have any abdominal distension?" 
D) "How long have you had abdominal pain?"

Exam 45: Nursing Management Lower Gastro-intestinal Problems