NCLEX Questions Gastrointestinal System Related

Review NCLEX Questions Gastrointestinal System related questions and content

The nurse is preparing to administer amitriptyline 10 mg orally to the client diagnosed with IBS. The client asks, “Why am I receiving this? I don’t feel depressed.” Which response by the nurse is best?

  • A. “The medication is working. People with chronic diseases typically also suffer from depression.”
  • B. “People with IBS have difficulty returning to sleep after waking to the bathroom. It will help you get adequate rest.”
  • C. “The anticholinergic side effects of the drug will help to prevent bowel irritability and constipation.”
  • D. “Tricyclic antidepressants reduce abdominal pain by affecting the communication system from the bowel to the brain.”
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: A. Not all clients with chronic diseases suffer from depression. The response does not address the primary reason for the use of a TCA such as amitriptyline (Elavil) in IBS. B. A common response to TCAs is sedation; however, this medication is not given for this reason. C. TCAs do have anticholinergic side effects and can cause (not prevent) constipation. Clients with IBS can have constipation or diarrhea. D. Evidence supports that TCAs can reduce abdominal pain, and this benefit is unrelated to whether or not the client is being treated for depression.