Adult Medical Surgical ATI Related

Review Adult Medical Surgical ATI related questions and content

A 28-year-old woman presents with abdominal pain, diarrhea, and rectal bleeding. She has a history of similar episodes in the past. What is the most likely diagnosis?

  • A. Ulcerative colitis
  • B. Irritable bowel syndrome
  • C. Celiac disease
  • D. Diverticulitis
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Ulcerative colitis. This chronic inflammatory condition affects the colon and rectum, leading to symptoms like abdominal pain, diarrhea, and rectal bleeding. The patient's recurrent episodes and history of similar symptoms point towards ulcerative colitis. Irritable bowel syndrome (choice B) typically presents with abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habits but not rectal bleeding. Celiac disease (choice C) presents with gastrointestinal symptoms after consuming gluten. Diverticulitis (choice D) presents with localized abdominal pain and fever due to inflammation or infection of the diverticula, not typically with rectal bleeding.