The nurse is scheduling a client for a series of diagnostic studies of the gastrointestinal (GI) system. Which of these studies should the nurse schedule last to avoid altering the results of the remaining tests?
- A. Ultrasound
- B. Colonoscopy
- C. Barium enema
- D. Computed tomography
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: When barium is instilled into the lower GI tract, it may take up to 72 hours to clear the GI tract. The presence of barium could cause interference with obtaining clear visualization and accurate results of the other tests listed if performed before the client has fully excreted the barium. For this reason, diagnostic studies that involve barium contrast are scheduled at the conclusion of other medical imaging studies.
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A newborn infant is diagnosed with esophageal atresia. Which assessment finding supports this diagnosis?
- A. Slowed reflexes
- B. Continuous drooling
- C. Diaphragmatic breathing
- D. Passage of large amounts of frothy stool
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: In esophageal atresia, the esophagus terminates before it reaches the stomach, ending in a blind pouch. This condition prevents the passage of swallowed mucus and saliva into the stomach. After fluid has accumulated in the pouch, it flows from the mouth and the infant then drools continuously. Responsiveness of the infant to stimulus would depend on the overall condition of the infant and is not considered a classic sign of esophageal atresia. Diaphragmatic breathing is not associated with this disorder. The inability to swallow amniotic fluid in utero prevents the accumulation of normal meconium, and lack of stools results.
The nurse instructs a preoperative client about the proper use of an incentive spirometer. What result should the nurse use to determine that the client is using the incentive spirometer effectively?
- A. Cloudy sputum
- B. Shallow breathing
- C. Unilateral wheezing
- D. Productive coughing
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Incentive spirometry helps reduce atelectasis, open airways, stimulate coughing, and help mobilize secretions for expectoration, via vital client participation in recovery. Cloudy sputum, shallow breathing, and wheezing indicate that the incentive spirometry is not effective because they point to infection, counterproductive depth of breathing, and bronchoconstriction, respectively.
A clinic nurse is assessing a prenatal client who has been diagnosed with heart disease. The nurse carefully assesses the client's vital signs, weight, and fluid and nutritional status to detect for complications caused by which pregnancy-related concern?
- A. Rh incompatibility
- B. Fetal cardiomegaly
- C. The increase in circulating blood volume
- D. Hypertrophy and increased contractility of the heart
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Pregnancy taxes the circulating system of every woman because the blood volume increases, which causes the cardiac output to increase. Stroke volume × heart rate = cardiac output (SV × HR = CO). Options 1, 2, and 4 are not directly associated with pregnancy in a client with a cardiac condition.
The nurse analyzed an electrocardiogram (ECG) strip (refer to figure) for a client demonstrating left-sided heart failure and interprets the ECG strip as which rhythm?
- A. Atrial fibrillation
- B. Sinus dysrhythmia
- C. Ventricular fibrillation
- D. Third-degree heart block
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Atrial fibrillation is characterized by rapid, chaotic atrial depolarization. Ventricular rates may be less than 100 beats per minute (controlled) or greater than 100 beats per minute (uncontrolled). The ECG reveals chaotic or no identifiable P waves and an irregular ventricular rhythm. A sinus dysrhythmia has a normal P wave and PR interval and QRS complex. In ventricular fibrillation, there are no identifiable P waves, QRS complexes, or T waves.
The nurse caring for a 5-year-old with a history of tetralogy of Fallot notes that the child has clubbed fingers. This finding is indicative of which associated condition?
- A. Tissue hypoxia
- B. Chronic hypertension
- C. Delayed physical growth
- D. Destruction of bone marrow
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Clubbing, a thickening and flattening of the tips of the fingers and toes, is thought to occur because of chronic tissue hypoxia and polycythemia. Options 2, 3, and 4 do not cause clubbing.