Gastrointestinal NCLEX Related

Review Gastrointestinal NCLEX related questions and content

The nurse is preparing to care for the client immediately after a Whipple procedure. The nurse should plan to include which action?

  • A. Monitor the blood glucose levels
  • B. Administer enteral feedings
  • C. Irrigate the NG tube with 30 mL of saline
  • D. Assist with bowel elimination within 8 hours of surgery
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: A. The Whipple procedure induces insulin-dependent diabetes because the proximal pancreas is resected. Thus, the blood glucose levels should be monitored closely starting immediately after surgery. B. Parenteral (not enteral) feedings are the method of choice for providing nutrition immediately after surgery. C. The NG tube is strategically placed during surgery and should not be irrigated without a surgeon’s order. With an order, gentle irrigation with 10 to 20 mL of NS is appropriate. D. Since this surgery reshapes the GI tract, the client will not have peristalsis and bowel movements for several days.