ATI Nursing Care of Children 2019 B Related

Review ATI Nursing Care of Children 2019 B related questions and content

Melena, the passage of black, tarry stools, suggests bleeding from which source?

  • A. The perianal or rectal area
  • B. The upper gastrointestinal (GI) tract
  • C. The lower GI tract
  • D. Hemorrhoids or anal fissures
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Melena indicates bleeding from the upper GI tract. The black, tarry appearance of the stool results from the partial digestion of blood as it passes through the intestines, typically originating from sources like the stomach or duodenum. Lower GI bleeding usually presents as bright red blood in the stool, originating from sources like the colon or rectum. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because melena specifically points to upper GI bleeding rather than issues in the perianal/rectal area, lower GI tract, or hemorrhoids/anal fissures.