CBC Post-Surgical Patient Care 3

Question 1

A patient 8 months after gastric bypass reports fatigue, and lab work shows microcytic anemia. Which nutrient deficiency is the most likely cause?

Accepted Answer

Iron

Answer

Iron deficiency is common after bypass because the duodenum, the primary site of iron absorption, is bypassed, producing microcytic anemia.

Question 2

Which symptom pattern distinguishes late dumping syndrome from early dumping syndrome?

Accepted Answer

Hypoglycemia symptoms such as shakiness and confusion occurring 1-3 hours after eating

Answer

Late dumping occurs 1-3 hours after eating due to reactive hypoglycemia from an exaggerated insulin response.

Question 3

A counselor is educating a post-surgical patient about alcohol. Which statement is most accurate for patients after gastric bypass?

Accepted Answer

Alcohol is absorbed faster and produces higher blood levels, increasing intoxication and addiction risk

Answer

Altered anatomy accelerates alcohol absorption and raises peak blood alcohol levels, increasing risks of intoxication and alcohol use disorder.

Question 4

Which finding in a sleeve gastrectomy patient 6 weeks post-op most warrants referral back to the surgical team for possible stricture?

Accepted Answer

Progressive inability to tolerate liquids with frequent regurgitation

Answer

Worsening intolerance of even liquids with regurgitation suggests a stricture or stenosis that requires surgical evaluation.

Question 5

Why is thiamine (vitamin B1) deficiency a medical emergency in a bariatric patient with persistent vomiting?

Accepted Answer

It can rapidly cause Wernicke encephalopathy with permanent neurological damage

Answer

Thiamine stores deplete within weeks, and prolonged vomiting can precipitate Wernicke encephalopathy, an acute neurological emergency.

(CBC) Certified Bariatric Counselor Practice Test