MSNCB Gastrointestinal Nursing 3

Question 1

A patient with a new ileostomy reports watery output of 2,500 mL in 24 hours. The nurse's priority action is to:

Accepted Answer

Assess for signs of dehydration and electrolyte imbalance

Answer

High ileostomy output >2,000 mL/day places the patient at risk for dehydration, hyponatremia, and hypokalemia.

Question 2

Which laboratory finding is most consistent with a diagnosis of acute pancreatitis?

Accepted Answer

Serum lipase >3× upper limit of normal

Answer

Serum lipase elevated more than three times the upper limit of normal is the most sensitive and specific marker for acute pancreatitis.

Question 3

A patient with GERD is prescribed omeprazole. The nurse should instruct the patient to take this medication:

Accepted Answer

30–60 minutes before the first meal of the day

Answer

Proton pump inhibitors are most effective when taken 30–60 minutes before a meal so the drug is active when acid pumps are stimulated.

Question 4

A nurse is assessing a patient with suspected appendicitis. Which finding is described as Rovsing's sign?

Accepted Answer

Pain in the RLQ when the left lower quadrant is palpated

Answer

Rovsing's sign is RLQ pain that occurs when pressure is applied to the left lower quadrant, suggesting peritoneal irritation.

Question 5

Which diet modification is most appropriate for a patient with diverticulosis (no active diverticulitis)?

Accepted Answer

High-fiber diet with adequate fluid intake

Answer

A high-fiber diet softens stool and reduces intraluminal pressure, decreasing the risk of diverticular inflammation.

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