Gastrointestinal NCLEX Related

Review Gastrointestinal NCLEX related questions and content

The nurse has received the a.m. shift report. Which client should the nurse assess first?

  • A. The 44-year-old client diagnosed with peptic ulcer disease who is complaining of acute epigastric pain.
  • B. The 74-year-old client diagnosed with acute gastroenteritis who has had four (4) diarrhea stools during the night.
  • C. The 65-year-old client diagnosed with IBD who has tented skin turgor and dry mucous membranes.
  • D. The 15-year-old client diagnosed with food poisoning who has vomited several times during the night shift.
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Tented skin turgor and dry mucous membranes in an elderly IBD patient indicate severe dehydration, a life-threatening condition requiring immediate assessment. Other clients have concerning but less urgent symptoms.