Gastrointestinal System Nursing Exam Questions Related

Review Gastrointestinal System Nursing Exam Questions related questions and content

Of the following signs and symptoms of bowel obstruction, which is related primarily to small bowel obstruction rather than large bowel obstruction?

  • A. Profuse vomiting.
  • B. Cramping abdominal pain.
  • C. Abdominal distention.
  • D. High-pitched bowel sounds above the obstruction.
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Profuse vomiting. In small bowel obstruction, the vomitus is typically profuse, as the small bowel is narrower and more distensible than the large bowel. This leads to rapid accumulation of gastric contents resulting in frequent vomiting. Cramping abdominal pain (B) can occur in both small and large bowel obstruction. Abdominal distention (C) is a common symptom in both types of obstruction due to the accumulation of gas and fluid. High-pitched bowel sounds above the obstruction (D) are indicative of partial obstruction and can be present in both small and large bowel obstruction.