NCLEX GI
A health care provider has written a prescription for ranitidine (Zantac) 300 mg once daily on the client's discharge medication list. The nurse plans to instruct the client to take the medication at which time? 1. At bedtime 2. After lunch 3. With supper 4. Before breakfast
1. At bedtime Rationale: A single daily dose of ranitidine should be taken at bedtime. This allows for prolonged effect and the greatest protection of gastric mucosa. Therefore, the other options are incorrect.
A client has been given a prescription for metoclopramide (Reglan) four times a day. Which is the optimal time to take this medication? 1. With each meal and at bedtime 2. 30 minutes before meals and at bedtime 3. One hour after each meal and at bedtime 4. Every 6 hours spaced evenly around the clock
2. 30 minutes before meals and at bedtime Rationale: Metoclopramide is a gastrointestinal stimulant. The client should be taught to take this medication 30 minutes before meals and at bedtime. Therefore, the other options are incorrect.
A client with Crohn's disease is scheduled to receive an infusion of infliximab (Remicade). The nurse assisting in caring for the client should take which action to monitor the effectiveness of treatment? 1. Monitoring the leukocyte count for 2 days after the infusion 2. Checking the frequency and consistency of bowel movements 3. Checking serum liver enzyme levels before and after the infusion 4. Carrying out a Hematest on gastric fluids after the infusion is completed
2. Checking the frequency and consistency of bowel movements Rationale: The principal manifestations of Crohn's disease are diarrhea and abdominal pain. Infliximab (Remicade) is an immunomodulator that reduces the degree of inflammation in the colon, thereby reducing the diarrhea. Options 1, 3, and 4 are unrelated to this medication.
The client has been taking omeprazole (Prilosec) for 4 weeks. The nurse evaluates that the client is receiving an optimal intended effect of the medication if the client reports the absence of which symptom? 1. Diarrhea 2. Heartburn 3. Flatulence 4. Constipation
2. Heartburn Rationale: Omeprazole is a proton pump inhibitor classified as an antiulcer agent. The intended effect of the medication is relief of pain from gastric irritation, often called "heartburn" by clients. Omeprazole is not used to treat the conditions identified in options 1, 3, and 4.
The client who frequently uses nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) has been taking misoprostol (Cytotec). The nurse determines that the medication is having the intended therapeutic effect if which is noted? 1. Resolved diarrhea 2. Relief of epigastric pain 3. Decreased platelet count 4. Decreased white blood cell count
2. Relief of epigastric pain Rationale: The client who frequently uses nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) is prone to gastric mucosal injury. Misoprostol is a gastric protectant and is given specifically to prevent this occurrence. Diarrhea can be a side effect of the medication, but it is not an intended effect. Options 3 and 4 are incorrect.
A postoperative client requests medication for flatulence (gas pains). Which medication from the following PRN list should the nurse administer to this client? 1. Ondansetron (Zofran) 2. Simethicone (Mylicon) 3. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) 4. Magnesium hydroxide (milk of magnesia, MOM)
2. Simethicone (Mylicon) Rationale: Simethicone is an antiflatulent used in the relief of pain caused by excessive gas in the gastrointestinal tract. Ondansetron is used to treat postoperative nausea and vomiting. Acetaminophen is a nonopioid analgesic. Magnesium hydroxide is an antacid and laxative.
A client with a peptic ulcer is diagnosed with a Helicobacter pylori infection. The nurse is reinforcing teaching for the client about the medications prescribed, including clarithromycin (Biaxin), esomeprazole (Nexium), and amoxicillin (Amoxil). Which statement by the client indicates the best understanding of the medication regimen? 1. "My ulcer will heal because these medications will kill the bacteria." 2. "These medications are only taken when I have pain from my ulcer." 3. "The medications will kill the bacteria and stop the acid production." 4. "These medications will coat the ulcer and decrease the acid production in my stomach."
3. "The medications will kill the bacteria and stop the acid production." Rationale: Triple therapy for Helicobacter pylori infection usually includes two antibacterial drugs and a proton pump inhibitor. Clarithromycin and amoxicillin are antibacterials. Esomeprazole is a proton pump inhibitor. These medications will kill the bacteria and decrease acid production.
A client is taking lansoprazole (Prevacid) for the chronic management of Zollinger-Ellison syndrome. If prescribed, which medication would be appropriate for the client if needed for a headache? 1. Naproxen (Aleve) 2. Ibuprofen (Advil) 3. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) 4. Acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin)
3. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) Rationale: Zollinger-Ellison syndrome is a hypersecretory condition of the stomach. The client should avoid taking medications that are irritating to the stomach lining. Irritants would include aspirin and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as naprosen and ibuprofen. Acetaminophen would likely be prescribed for headache for this client because it would not be irritating to the stomach.
The nurse is administering a dose of prochlorperazine to a client for nausea and vomiting. The nurse tells the client to report which frequent side effect of this medication? 1. Diarrhea 2. Drooling 3. Blurred vision 4. Excessive perspiration
3. Blurred vision Rationale: The nurse would assess the client for blurred vision as a frequent side effect of prochlorperazine. Other frequent side effects of this phenothiazine-type antiemetic and antipsychotic are dry eyes, dry mouth, and constipation. The other options are incorrect.
A long-term care nurse is caring for an older client taking cimetidine (Tagamet). The nurse observes this client frequently for which most common central nervous system (CNS) side effect of this medication? 1. Tremors 2. Dizziness 3. Confusion 4. Hallucinations
3. Confusion Rationale: Older clients are especially susceptible to CNS side effects of cimetidine, of which confusion is most common. Less common ones are headache, dizziness, drowsiness, and hallucinations.
A client has begun taking lansoprazole (Prevacid). The nurse monitors for which intended effect of this medication? 1. Relief of abdominal pain 2. Decrease in intestinal gas 3. Relief of nighttime heartburn 4. Absence of nausea and vomiting
3. Relief of nighttime heartburn Rationale: Lansoprazole is a proton pump inhibitor that suppresses gastric acid secretion. It is not used as an antiemetic (option 4). It is not used to directly treat abdominal pain or intestinal gas.
The client has a PRN prescription for ondansetron (Zofran). For which condition should this medication be administered to the postoperative client? 1. Paralytic ileus 2. Incisional pain 3. Urinary retention 4. Nausea and vomiting
4. Nausea and vomiting Rationale: Ondansetron is an antiemetic used to treat postoperative nausea and vomiting, as well as nausea and vomiting associated with chemotherapy. The other options are incorrect.
A client has just taken a dose of trimethobenzamide (Tigan). The nurse determines that the medication has been effective if the client reports which outcome? 1. Heartburn has been relieved. 2. Passage of hard stool has occurred. 3. Abdominal pain has been alleviated. 4. Nausea and vomiting has been relieved.
4. Nausea and vomiting has been relieved. Rationale: Trimethobenzamide is an antiemetic agent used in the treatment of nausea and vomiting. The other options are incorrect.
A client with a diagnosis of gastric ulcer has a prescription for oral sucralfate (Carafate) four times daily. At which time should the nurse plan to administer the medication? 1. With meals and at bedtime 2. Every 6 hours around the clock 3. One hour after meals and at bedtime 4. One hour before meals and at bedtime
4. One hour before meals and at bedtime Rationale: Sucralfate (Carafate) should be scheduled for administration 1 hour before meals and at bedtime. This timing will allow the medication to form a protective coating over the gastric ulcer before it becomes irritated by food intake, gastric acid production, and mechanical movement. The other options are incorrect.
A client is taking docusate sodium (Colace). The nurse monitors which result to determine whether the client is having a therapeutic effect from this medication? 1. Abdominal pain 2. Reduction in steatorrhea 3. Hematest-negative stools 4. Regular bowel movements
4. Regular bowel movements Rationale: Docusate sodium is a stool softener that promotes the absorption of water into the stool, producing a softer consistency of stool. The intended effect is relief or prevention of constipation. The medication does not relieve abdominal pain, stop gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding, or decrease the amount of fat in the stools.
A client with peptic ulcer disease has a new prescription for propantheline (Pro-Banthine). Which client teaching instructions should the nurse reinforce? 1. Take the medication with meals. 2. Take the medication with antacids. 3. Take the medication just after meals. 4. Take the medication 30 minutes before meals.
4. Take the medication 30 minutes before meals. Rationale: Propantheline is classified as an antimuscarinic, anticholinergic medication that decreases gastrointestinal secretions. It should be administered 30 minutes before meals. Therefore, the other options are incorrect.
The client has a new prescription for metoclopramide (Reglan). On review of the chart, the nurse identifies that this medication can be safely administered with which condition? 1. Intestinal obstruction 2. Peptic ulcer with melena 3. Diverticulitis with perforation 4. Vomiting following cancer chemotherapy
4. Vomiting following cancer chemotherapy Rationale: Metoclopramide is a gastrointestinal (GI) stimulant and antiemetic. Because it is a GI stimulant, it is contraindicated with GI obstruction, hemorrhage, or perforation. It is used in the treatment of emesis after surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation.
A stroke patient who primarily uses a wheelchair for mobility has diarrhea with fecal incontinence. What should the nurse assess first? A. Fecal impaction B. Perineal hygiene C. Dietary fiber intake D. Antidiarrheal agent use
A. Fecal impaction Patients with limited mobility are at risk for fecal impactions due to constipation that may lead to liquid stool leaking around the hardened impacted feces, so assessing for fecal impaction is the priority. Perineal hygiene can be assessed at the same time. Assessing the dietary fiber and fluid intake and antidiarrheal agent use will be assessed and considered next.
A patient with a history of peptic ulcer disease has presented to the emergency department reporting severe abdominal pain and has a rigid, boardlike abdomen that prompts the health care team to suspect a perforated ulcer. What intervention should the nurse anticipate? A. Providing IV fluids and inserting a nasogastric (NG) tube B. Administering oral bicarbonate and testing the patient's gastric pH level C. Performing a fecal occult blood test and administering IV calcium gluconate D. Starting parenteral nutrition and placing the patient in a high-Fowler's position
A. Providing IV fluids and inserting a nasogastric (NG) tube A perforated peptic ulcer requires IV replacement of fluid losses and continued gastric aspiration by NG tube. Nothing is given by mouth, and gastric pH testing is not a priority. Calcium gluconate is not a medication directly relevant to the patient's suspected diagnosis, and parenteral nutrition is not a priority in the short term.
A patient complains of nausea. When administering a dose of metoclopramide (Reglan), the nurse should teach the patient to report which potential adverse effect? A. Tremors B. Constipation C. Double vision D. Numbness in fingers and toes
A. Tremors Extrapyramidal side effects, including tremors and tardive dyskinesias, may occur as a result of metoclopramide (Reglan) administration. Constipation, double vision, and numbness in fingers and toes are not adverse effects of metoclopramide.
Two days following a colectomy for an abdominal mass, a patient reports gas pains and abdominal distention. The nurse plans care for the patient based on the knowledge that the symptoms are occurring as a result of A. impaired peristalsis. B. irritation of the bowel. C. nasogastric suctioning. D. inflammation of the incision site.
A. impaired peristalsis. Until peristalsis returns to normal following anesthesia, the patient may experience slowed gastrointestinal motility leading to gas pains and abdominal distention. Irritation of the bowel, nasogastric suctioning, and inflammation of the surgical site do not cause gas pains or abdominal distention.
A 61-year-old patient with suspected bowel obstruction had a nasogastric tube inserted at 4:00 AM. The nurse shares in the morning report that the day shift staff should check the tube for patency at what times? A. 7:00 AM, 10:00 AM, and 1:00 PM B. 8:00 AM, 12:00 PM, and 4:00 PM C. 9:00 AM and 3:00 PM D. 9:00 AM, 12:00 PM, and 3:00 PM
B. 8:00 AM, 12:00 PM, and 4:00 PM A nasogastric tube should be checked for patency routinely at 4-hour intervals. Thus if the tube were inserted at 4:00 AM, it would be due to be checked at 8:00 AM, 12:00 PM, and 4:00 PM.
After administering a dose of promethazine (Phenergan) to a patient with nausea and vomiting, what common temporary adverse effect of the medication does the nurse explain may be experienced? A. Tinnitus B. Drowsiness C. Reduced hearing D. Sensation of falling
B. Drowsiness Although being given to this patient as an antiemetic, promethazine also has sedative and amnesic properties. For this reason, the patient is likely to experience drowsiness as an adverse effect of the medication. Tinnitus, reduced hearing, and loss of balance are not side effects of promethazine.
The patient who is admitted with a diagnosis of diverticulitis and a history of irritable bowel disease and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) has received a dose of Mylanta 30 mL PO. The nurse should evaluate its effectiveness by questioning the patient as to whether which symptom has been resolved? A. Diarrhea B. Heartburn C. Constipation D. Lower abdominal pain
B. Heartburn Mylanta is an antacid that contains both aluminum and magnesium. It is indicated for the relief of GI discomfort, such as heartburn associated with GERD. Mylanta can cause both diarrhea and constipation as a side effect. Mylanta does not affect lower abdominal pain.
The nurse is planning care for a 68-year-old patient with an abdominal mass and suspected bowel obstruction. Which factor in the patient's history increases the patient's risk for colorectal cancer? A. Osteoarthritis B. History of colorectal polyps C. History of lactose intolerance D. Use of herbs as dietary supplements
B. History of colorectal polyps A history of colorectal polyps places this patient at risk for colorectal cancer. This tissue can degenerate over time and become malignant. Osteoarthritis, lactose intolerance, and the use of herbs do not pose additional risk to the patient.
What information would have the highest priority to be included in preoperative teaching for a 68-year-old patient scheduled for a colectomy? A. How to care for the wound B. How to deep breathe and cough C. The location and care of drains after surgery D. Which medications will be used during surgery
B. How to deep breathe and cough Because anesthesia, an abdominal incision, and pain can impair the patient's respiratory status in the postoperative period, it is of high priority to teach the patient to cough and deep breathe. Otherwise, the patient could develop atelectasis and pneumonia, which would delay early recovery from surgery and hospital discharge. Care for the wound and location and care of the drains will be briefly discussed preoperatively, but done again with higher priority after surgery. Knowing which drugs will be used during surgery may not be meaningful to the patient and should be reviewed with the patient by the anesthesiologist.
The nurse should administer an as-needed dose of magnesium hydroxide (MOM) after noting what information while reviewing a patient's medical record? A. Abdominal pain and bloating B. No bowel movement for 3 days C. A decrease in appetite by 50% over 24 hours D. Muscle tremors and other signs of hypomagnesemia
B. No bowel movement for 3 days MOM is an osmotic laxative that produces a soft, semisolid stool usually within 15 minutes to 3 hours. This medication would benefit the patient who has not had a bowel movement for 3 days. MOM would not be given for abdominal pain and bloating, decreased appetite, or signs of hypomagnesemia.
Which clinical manifestations of inflammatory bowel disease are common to both patients with ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn's disease (select all that apply)? A. Restricted to rectum B. Strictures are common. C. Bloody, diarrhea stools D. Cramping abdominal pain E. Lesions penetrate intestine.
C, D. Clinical manifestations of UC and Crohn's disease include bloody diarrhea, cramping abdominal pain, and nutritional disorders. Intestinal lesions associated with UC are usually restricted to the rectum before moving into the colon. Lesions that penetrate the intestine or cause strictures are characteristic of Crohn's disease.
After the nurse teaches a patient with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) about recommended dietary modifications, which statement by the patient indicates that the teaching has been effective? A. "I can have a glass of low-fat milk at bedtime." B. "I will have to eliminate all spicy foods from my diet." C. "I will have to use herbal teas instead of caffeinated drinks." D. "I should keep something in my stomach all the time to neutralize the excess acids."
C. "I will have to use herbal teas instead of caffeinated drinks." Rationale: Patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease should avoid foods (such as tea and coffee) that decrease lower esophageal pressure. Patients should also avoid milk, especially at bedtime, as it increases gastric acid secretion. Patients may eat spicy foods, unless these foods cause reflux. Small, frequent meals help prevent overdistention of the stomach, but patients should avoid late evening meals and nocturnal snacking.
The patient with chronic gastritis is being put on a combination of medications to eradicate H. pylori. Which drugs does the nurse know will probably be used for this patient? A. Antibiotic(s), antacid, and corticosteroid B. Antibiotic(s), aspirin, and antiulcer/protectant C. Antibiotic(s), proton pump inhibitor, and bismuth D. Antibiotic(s) and nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
C. Antibiotic(s), proton pump inhibitor, and bismuth To eradicate H. pylori, a combination of antibiotics, a proton pump inhibitor, and possibly bismuth (for quadruple therapy) will be used. Corticosteroids, aspirin, and NSAIDs are drugs that can cause gastritis and do not affect H. pylori.
The nurse determines that a patient has experienced the beneficial effects of therapy with famotidine (Pepcid) when which symptom is relieved? A. Nausea B. Belching C. Epigastric pain D. Difficulty swallowing
C. Epigastric pain Famotidine is an H2-receptor antagonist that inhibits parietal cell output of HCl acid and minimizes damage to gastric mucosa related to hyperacidity, thus relieving epigastric pain. Famotidine is not indicated for nausea, belching, and dysphagia.
A female patient has a sliding hiatal hernia. What nursing interventions will prevent the symptoms of heartburn and dyspepsia that she is experiencing? A. Keep the patient NPO. B. Put the bed in the Trendelenberg position. C. Have the patient eat 4 to 6 smaller meals each day. D. Give various antacids to determine which one works for the patient.
C. Have the patient eat 4 to 6 smaller meals each day. Eating smaller meals during the day will decrease the gastric pressure and the symptoms of hiatal hernia. Keeping the patient NPO or in a Trendelenberg position are not safe or realistic for a long period of time for any patient. Varying antacids will only be done with the care provider's prescription, so this is not a nursing intervention.
Following administration of a dose of metoclopramide (Reglan) to the patient, the nurse determines that the medication has been effective when what is noted? A. Decreased blood pressure B. Absence of muscle tremors C. Relief of nausea and vomiting D. No further episodes of diarrhea
C. Relief of nausea and vomiting Metoclopramide is classified as a prokinetic and antiemetic medication. If it is effective, the patient's nausea and vomiting should resolve. Metoclopramide does not affect blood pressure, muscle tremors, or diarrhea.
Following bowel resection, a patient has a nasogastric (NG) tube to suction, but complains of nausea and abdominal distention. The nurse irrigates the tube as necessary as ordered, but the irrigating fluid does not return. What should be the priority action by the nurse? A. Notify the physician. B. Auscultate for bowel sounds. C. Reposition the tube and check for placement. D. Remove the tube and replace it with a new one.
C. Reposition the tube and check for placement. The tube may be resting against the stomach wall. The first action by the nurse (since this is intestinal surgery and not gastric surgery) is to reposition the tube and check it again for placement. The physician does not need to be notified unless the tube function cannot be restored by the nurse. The patient does not have bowel sounds, which is why the NG tube is in place. The NG tube would not be removed and replaced unless it was no longer in the stomach or the obstruction of the tube could not be relieved.
The nurse is caring for a postoperative patient with a colostomy. The nurse is preparing to administer a dose of famotidine (Pepcid) when the patient asks why the medication was ordered since the patient does not have a history of heartburn or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). What response by the nurse would be the most appropriate? A. "This will prevent air from accumulating in the stomach, causing gas pains." B. "This will prevent the heartburn that occurs as a side effect of general anesthesia." C. "The stress of surgery is likely to cause stomach bleeding if you do not receive it." D. "This will reduce the amount of HCl in the stomach until the nasogastric tube is removed and you can eat a regular diet again."
D. "This will reduce the amount of HCl in the stomach until the nasogastric tube is removed and you can eat a regular diet again." Famotidine is an H2-receptor antagonist that inhibits gastric HCl secretion and thus minimizes damage to gastric mucosa while the patient is not eating a regular diet after surgery. Famotidine does not prevent air from accumulating in the stomach or stop the stomach from bleeding. Heartburn is not a side effect of general anesthesia.
The nurse is caring for a 68-year-old patient admitted with abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. The patient has an abdominal mass, and a bowel obstruction is suspected. The nurse auscultating the abdomen listens for which type of bowel sounds that are consistent with the patient's clinical picture? A. Low-pitched and rumbling above the area of obstruction B. High-pitched and hypoactive below the area of obstruction C. Low-pitched and hyperactive below the area of obstruction D. High-pitched and hyperactive above the area of obstruction
D. High-pitched and hyperactive above the area of obstruction Early in intestinal obstruction, the patient's bowel sounds are hyperactive and high-pitched, sometimes referred to as "tinkling" above the level of the obstruction. This occurs because peristaltic action increases to "push past" the area of obstruction. As the obstruction becomes complete, bowel sounds decrease and finally become absent.
The nurse is preparing to administer a dose of bisacodyl (Dulcolax). In explaining the medication to the patient, the nurse would explain that it acts in what way? A. Increases bulk in the stool B. Lubricates the intestinal tract to soften feces C. Increases fluid retention in the intestinal tract D. Increases peristalsis by stimulating nerves in the colon wall
D. Increases peristalsis by stimulating nerves in the colon wall Bisacodyl is a stimulant laxative that aids in producing a bowel movement by irritating the colon wall and stimulating enteric nerves. It is available in oral and suppository forms. Fiber and bulk forming drugs increase bulk in the stool; water and stool softeners soften feces, and saline and osmotic solutions cause fluid retention in the intestinal tract.
The nurse would question the use of which cathartic agent in a patient with renal insufficiency? A. Bisacodyl (Dulcolax) B. Lubiprostone (Amitiza) C. Cascara sagrada (Senekot) D. Magnesium hydroxide (Milk of Magnesia)
D. Magnesium hydroxide (Milk of Magnesia) Milk of Magnesia may cause hypermagnesemia in patients with renal insufficiency. The nurse should question this order with the health care provider. Bisacodyl, lubiprostone, and cascara sagrada are safe to use in patients with renal insufficiency as long as the patient is not currently dehydrated.
A patient reports having a dry mouth and asks for something to drink. The nurse recognizes that this symptom can most likely be attributed to a common adverse effect of which medication that the patient is taking? A. Digoxin (Lanoxin) B. Cefotetan (Cefotan) C. Famotidine (Pepcid) D. Promethazine (Phenergan)
D. Promethazine (Phenergan) A common adverse effect of promethazine, an antihistamine/antiemetic agent, is dry mouth; another is blurred vision. Common side effects of digoxin are yellow halos and bradycardia. Common side effects of cefotetan are nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, and diarrhea. Common side effects of famotidine are headache, abdominal pain, constipation, or diarrhea.
A 72-year-old patient was admitted with epigastric pain due to a gastric ulcer. Which patient assessment warrants an urgent change in the nursing plan of care? A. Chest pain relieved with eating or drinking water B. Back pain 3 or 4 hours after eating a meal C. Burning epigastric pain 90 minutes after breakfast D. Rigid abdomen and vomiting following indigestion
D. Rigid abdomen and vomiting following indigestion A rigid abdomen with vomiting in a patient who has a gastric ulcer indicates a perforation of the ulcer, especially if the manifestations of perforation appear suddenly. Midepigastric pain is relieved by eating, drinking water, or antacids with duodenal ulcers, not gastric ulcers. Back pain 3-4 hours after a meal is more likely to occur with a duodenal ulcer. Burning epigastric pain 1-2 hours after a meal is an expected manifestation of a gastric ulcer related to increased gastric secretions and does not cause an urgent change in the nursing plan of care.
What should the nurse instruct the patient to do to best enhance the effectiveness of a daily dose of docusate sodium (Colace)? A. Take a dose of mineral oil at the same time. B. Add extra salt to food on at least one meal tray. C. Ensure dietary intake of 10 g of fiber each day. D. Take each dose with a full glass of water or other liquid.
D. Take each dose with a full glass of water or other liquid. Docusate lowers the surface tension of stool, permitting water and fats to penetrate and soften the stool for easier passage. The patient should take the dose with a full glass of water and should increase overall fluid intake, if able, to enhance effectiveness of the medication. Dietary fiber intake should be a minimum of 20 g daily to prevent constipation. Mineral oil and extra salt are not recommended.
The patient receiving chemotherapy rings the call bell and reports the onset of nausea. The nurse should prepare an as-needed dose of which medication? A. Morphine sulfate B. Zolpidem (Ambien) C. Ondansetron (Zofran) D. Dexamethasone (Decadron)
Ondansetron is a 5-HT3 receptor antagonist antiemetic that is especially effective in reducing cancer chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting. Morphine sulfate may cause nausea and vomiting. Zolpidem does not relieve nausea and vomiting. Dexamethasone is usually used in combination with ondansetron for acute and chemotherapy-induced emesis.
When evaluating the patient's understanding about the care of the ileostomy, what statement by the patient indicates the patient needs more teaching? a. "I will be able to regulate when I have stools." b. "I will be able to wear the pouch until it leaks." c. "Dried fruit and popcorn must be chewed very well." d. "The drainage from my stoma can damage my skin."
a. "I will be able to regulate when I have stools." The ileostomy is in the ileum and drains liquid stool frequently, unlike the colostomy which has more formed stool the further distal the ostomy is in the colon. The ileostomy pouch is usually worn 4-7 days or until it leaks. It must be changed immediately if it leaks because the drainage is very irritating to the skin. To avoid obstruction, popcorn, dried fruit, coconut, mushrooms, olives, stringy vegetables, food with skin, and meats with casings must be chewed extremely well before swallowing because of the narrow diameter of the ileostomy lumen.
The nurse is preparing to insert a nasogastric (NG) tube into a 68-year-old female patient who is nauseated and vomiting. She has an abdominal mass and suspected small intestinal obstruction. The patient asks the nurse why this procedure is necessary. What response by the nurse is most appropriate? a. "The tube will help to drain the stomach contents and prevent further vomiting." b. "The tube will push past the area that is blocked and thus help to stop the vomiting." c. "The tube is just a standard procedure before many types of surgery to the abdomen." d. "The tube will let us measure your stomach contents so that we can plan what type of IV fluid replacement would be best."
a. "The tube will help to drain the stomach contents and prevent further vomiting." The NG tube is used to decompress the stomach by draining stomach contents and thereby prevent further vomiting. The NG tube will not push past the blocked area. Potential surgery is not currently indicated. The location of the obstruction will determine the type of fluid to use, not measure the amount of stomach contents.
The nurse is conducting discharge teaching for a patient with metastatic lung cancer who was admitted with a bowel impaction. Which instructions would be most helpful to prevent further episodes of constipation? a. Maintain a high intake of fluid and fiber in the diet. b. Reduce intake of medications causing constipation. c. Eat several small meals per day to maintain bowel motility. d. Sit upright during meals to increase bowel motility by gravity.
a. Maintain a high intake of fluid and fiber in the diet. Increased fluid intake and a high-fiber diet reduce the incidence of constipation caused by immobility, medications, and other factors. Fluid and fiber provide bulk that in turn increases peristalsis and bowel motility. Analgesics taken for lung cancer probably cannot be reduced. Other medications may decrease constipation, but it is best to avoid laxatives. Eating several small meals per day and position do not facilitate bowel motility. Defecation is easiest when the person sits on the commode with the knees higher than the hips.
The wound, ostomy, and continence (WOC) nurse selects the site where the ostomy will be placed. What should be included in the consideration for the site? a. The patient must be able to see the site. b. Outside the rectus muscle area is the best site. c. It is easier to seal the drainage bag to a protruding area. d. The ostomy will need irrigation, so area should not be tender.
a. The patient must be able to see the site. In selection of the ostomy site, the WOC nurse will want a site visible to the patient so the patient can take care of it, within the rectus muscle to avoid hernias, and on a flat surface to more easily create a good seal with the drainage bag.
Two days following a colectomy for an abdominal mass, a patient reports gas pains and abdominal distention. The nurse plans care for the patient based on the knowledge that the symptoms are occurring as a result of a. impaired peristalsis. b. irritation of the bowel. c. nasogastric suctioning. d. inflammation of the incision site.
a. impaired peristalsis. Until peristalsis returns to normal following anesthesia, the patient may experience slowed gastrointestinal motility leading to gas pains and abdominal distention. Irritation of the bowel, nasogastric suctioning, and inflammation of the surgical site do not cause gas pains or abdominal distention.
A patient who is given a bisacodyl (Dulcolax) suppository asks the nurse how long it will take to work. The nurse replies that the patient will probably need to use the bedpan or commode within which time frame after administration? a. 2-5 minutes b. 15-60 minutes c. 2-4 hours d. 6-8 hours
b. 15-60 minutes Bisacodyl suppositories usually are effective within 15 to 60 minutes of administration, so the nurse should plan accordingly to assist the patient to use the bedpan or commode.
The nurse identifies that which patient is at highest risk for developing colon cancer? a. A 28-year-old male who has a body mass index of 27 kg/m2 b. A 32-year-old female with a 12-year history of ulcerative colitis c. A 52-year-old male who has followed a vegetarian diet for 24 years d. A 58-year-old female taking prescribed estrogen replacement therapy
b. A 32-year-old female with a 12-year history of ulcerative colitis Risk for colon cancer includes personal history of inflammatory bowel disease (especially ulcerative colitis for longer than 10 years); obesity (body mass index ≥ 30 kg/m2); family (first-degree relative) or personal history of colorectal cancer, adenomatous polyposis, hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer syndrome; red meat (=7 servings/week); cigarette use; and alcohol (=4 drinks/week).
A colectomy is scheduled for a 38-year-old woman with ulcerative colitis. The nurse should plan to include what prescribed measure in the preoperative preparation of this patient? a. Instruction on irrigating a colostomy b. Administration of a cleansing enema c. A high-fiber diet the day before surgery d. Administration of IV antibiotics for bowel preparation
b. Administration of a cleansing enema Preoperative preparation for bowel surgery typically includes bowel cleansing with antibiotics, such as oral neomycin and cleansing enemas, including Fleet enemas. Instructions to irrigate the colostomy will be done postoperatively. Oral antibiotics are given preoperatively, and an IV antibiotic may be used in the OR. A clear liquid diet will be used the day before surgery with the bowel cleansing.
The nurse cares for a postoperative patient who has just vomited yellow green liquid and reports nausea. Which action would be an appropriate nursing intervention? a. Offer the patient a herbal supplement such as ginseng. b. Apply a cool washcloth to the forehead and provide mouth care. c. Take the patient for a walk in the hallway to promote peristalsis. d. Discontinue any medications that may cause nausea or vomiting.
b. Apply a cool washcloth to the forehead and provide mouth care. Cleansing the face and hands with a cool washcloth and providing mouth care are appropriate comfort interventions for nausea and vomiting. Ginseng is not used to treat postoperative nausea and vomiting. Unnecessary activity should be avoided. The patient should rest in a quiet environment. Medications may be temporarily withheld until the acute phase is over, but the medications should not be discontinued without consultation with the health care provider.
A patient is seeking emergency care after choking on a piece of steak. The nursing assessment reveals a history of alcoholism, cigarette smoking, and hemoptysis. Which diagnostic study is most likely to be performed on this patient? a. Barium swallow b. Endoscopic biopsy c. Capsule endoscopy d. Endoscopic ultrasonography
b. Endoscopic biopsy Because of this patient's history of excessive alcohol intake, smoking, hemoptysis, and the current choking episode, cancer may be present. A biopsy is necessary to make a definitive diagnosis of carcinoma, so an endoscope will be used to obtain a biopsy and observe other abnormalities as well. A barium swallow may show narrowing of the esophagus, but it is more diagnostic for achalasia. An endoscopic ultrasonography may be used to stage esophageal cancer. Capsule endoscopy can show alterations in the esophagus but is more often used for small intestine problems. A barium swallow, capsule endoscopy, and endoscopic ultrasonography cannot provide a definitive diagnosis for cancer when it is suspected.
A 58-year-old woman is being discharged home today after ostomy surgery for colon cancer. The nurse should assign the patient to which staff member? a. A nursing assistant on the unit who also has hospice experience b. A licensed practical nurse who has worked on the unit for 10 years c. A registered nurse with 6 months of experience on the surgical unit d. A registered nurse who has floated to the surgical unit from pediatrics
c. A registered nurse with 6 months of experience on the surgical unit The patient needs ostomy care directions/reinforcement at discharge and should be assigned to a registered nurse with experience in providing discharge teaching for ostomy care. Teaching should not be delegated to a licensed practical/vocational nurse or unlicensed assistive personnel.
The patient is having a gastroduodenostomy (Billroth I operation) for stomach cancer. What long-term complication is occurring when the patient reports generalized weakness, sweating, palpitations, and dizziness 15 to 30 minutes after eating? a. Malnutrition b. Bile reflux gastritis c. Dumping syndrome d. Postprandial hypoglycemia
c. Dumping syndrome After a Billroth I operation, dumping syndrome may occur 15 to 30 minutes after eating because of the hypertonic fluid going to the intestine and additional fluid being drawn into the bowel. Malnutrition may occur but does not cause these symptoms. Bile reflux gastritis cannot happen when the stomach has been removed. Postprandial hypoglycemia occurs with similar symptoms, but 2 hours after eating.
A 20-year-old man is admitted to the emergency department after a motor vehicle crash with suspected abdominal trauma. What assessment finding by the nurse is of highest priority? a. Nausea and vomiting b. Hyperactive bowel sounds c. Firmly distended abdomen d. Abrasions on all extremities
c. Firmly distended abdomen Clinical manifestations of abdominal trauma are guarding and splinting of the abdominal wall; a hard, distended abdomen (indicating possible intraabdominal bleeding); decreased or absent bowel sounds; contusions, abrasions, or bruising over the abdomen; abdominal pain; pain over the scapula; hematemesis or hematuria; and signs of hypovolemic shock (tachycardia and decreased blood pressure).
The patient is having an esophagoenterostomy with anastomosis of a segment of the colon to replace the resected portion. What initial postoperative care should the nurse expect when this patient returns to the nursing unit? a. Turn, deep breathe, cough, and use spirometer every 4 hours. b. Maintain an upright position for at least 2 hours after eating. c. NG will have bloody drainage, and it should not be repositioned. d. Keep in a supine position to prevent movement of the anastomosis.
c. NG will have bloody drainage, and it should not be repositioned. The patient will have bloody drainage from the NG tube for 8 to 12 hours, and it should not be repositioned or reinserted without contacting the surgeon. Turning and deep breathing will be done every 2 hours, and the spirometer will be used more often than every 4 hours. Coughing would put too much pressure in the area and should not be done. Because the patient will have the NG tube, the patient will not be eating yet. The patient should be kept in a semi-Fowler's or Fowler's position, not supine, to prevent reflux and aspiration of secretions.
A 74-year-old female patient with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) takes over-the-counter medications. For which medication, if taken long-term, should the nurse teach about an increased risk of fractures? a. Sucralfate (Carafate) b. Cimetidine (Tagamet) c. Omeprazole (Prilosec) d. Metoclopramide (Reglan)
c. Omeprazole (Prilosec) There is a potential link between proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) (e.g., omeprazole) use and bone metabolism. Long-term use or high doses of PPIs may increase the risk of fractures of the hip, wrist, and spine. Lower doses or shorter duration of therapy should be considered.
Which patients would be at highest risk for developing oral candidiasis? a. A 74-year-old patient who has vitamin B and C deficiencies b. A 22-year-old patient who smokes 2 packs of cigarettes per day c. A 58-year-old patient who is receiving amphotericin B for 2 days d. A 32-year-old patient who is receiving ciprofloxacin (Cipro) for 3 weeks
d. A 32-year-old patient who is receiving ciprofloxacin (Cipro) for 3 weeks Oral candidiasis is caused by prolonged antibiotic treatment (e.g., ciprofloxacin) or high doses of corticosteroids. Amphotericin B is used to treat candidiasis. Vitamin B and C deficiencies are rare but may lead to Vincent's infection. Use of tobacco products leads to stomatitis.
When teaching the patient about the diet for diverticular disease, which foods should the nurse recommend? a. White bread, cheese, and green beans b. Fresh tomatoes, pears, and corn flakes c. Oranges, baked potatoes, and raw carrots d. Dried beans, All Bran (100%) cereal, and raspberries
d. Dried beans, All Bran (100%) cereal, and raspberries
After an abdominal hysterectomy, a 45-year-old woman complains of severe gas pains. Her abdomen is distended. It is most appropriate for the nurse to administer which prescribed medication? a. Morphine sulfate b. Ondansetron (Zofran) c. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) d. Metoclopramide (Reglan)
d. Metoclopramide (Reglan) Swallowed air and reduced peristalsis after surgery can result in abdominal distention and gas pains. Early ambulation helps restore peristalsis and eliminate flatus and gas pain. Medications used to reduce gas pain include metoclopramide (Reglan) or alvimopan (Entereg) to stimulate peristalsis.