Brunner & Suddarth's Textbook of Medical-Surgical Nursing 14e (Hinkle 2017) - Management of Patients With Intestinal and Rectal Disorders Related

Review Brunner & Suddarth's Textbook of Medical-Surgical Nursing 14e (Hinkle 2017) - Management of Patients With Intestinal and Rectal Disorders related questions and content

A patients health history is suggestive of inflammatory bowel disease. Which of the following would suggest Crohns disease, rather than ulcerative colitis, as the cause of the patients signs and symptoms?

  • A. A pattern of distinct exacerbations and remissions
  • B. Severe diarrhea
  • C. An absence of blood in stool
  • D. Involvement of the rectal mucosa
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Bloody stool is far more common in cases of UC than in Crohns. Rectal involvement is nearly 100% in cases of UC (versus 20% in Crohns) and patients with UC typically experience severe diarrhea. UC is also characterized by a pattern of remissions and exacerbations, while Crohns often has a more prolonged and variable course.