Gastrointestinal Disorders NCLEX RN Related

Review Gastrointestinal Disorders NCLEX RN related questions and content

A 52-year-old client with a 20-year history of alcohol abuse is hospitalized with mild ascites, jaundice, and bruising. Imaging demonstrates the presence of esophageal varices, while the client's elevated serum ammonia level indicates hepatic encephalopathy. The nurse is concerned the client's esophageal varices may rupture and proceeds to educate the client accordingly. Which item should the nurse include in the client's education session?

  • A. Do not lift heavy objects.
  • B. Avoid walking briskly.
  • C. Avoid taking barbiturates.
  • D. Avoid ingesting antacids.
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Avoiding heavy lifting (A) reduces intra-abdominal pressure, decreasing the risk of esophageal variceal rupture. The other options are less directly related to preventing variceal bleeding.