GI Diagnostics
A nurse should withhold fluids after this procedure until the gag reflex returns to prevent aspiration
What is EGD (endoscopy)
A patient reports heartburn that improves when sitting upright. What condition is most likely?
What is GERD
This bacterium is the most common cause of peptic ulcer disease
What is H. pylori
This is the hallmark sign of small bowel obstruction involving foul-smelling vomit
What is fecal emesis
A patient with vomiting and diarrhea—what is the priority problem?
What is fluid volume deficit
A patient must avoid red meat and vitamin C before this test to prevent false results
What is fecal occult blood test (FOBT)
This condition is a precancerous complication of GERD involving cellular changes in the esophagus
What is Barrett’s esophagus
Pain that is relieved by eating is characteristic of this type of ulcer
What is duodenal ulcer
The priority intervention for intestinal obstruction is this
What is NG tube decompression
The MOST important indicator of hydration status is this
What is daily weight
A patient reports abdominal pain, fever, and distention after an endoscopy. What complication is suspected?
What is perforation
A patient with GERD should avoid eating within this time frame before bedtime
What is 2–3 hours
A rigid, board-like abdomen with severe pain indicates this complication
What is perforation
Pain that begins in the periumbilical area and moves to the RLQ indicates this condition
What is appendicitis
A patient receiving enteral feeding is found lying flat. What is the priority action?
What is elevate head of bed
A nurse notes white, chalky stools after a procedure. What is the priority nursing action?
What is increase fluids and monitor for barium elimination
A patient has hematemesis and a history of cirrhosis. What life-threatening condition should the nurse suspect?
What are esophageal varices
A patient with chronic gastritis develops anemia due to loss of this factor
What is intrinsic factor (B12 deficiency)
This sign involves rebound tenderness and indicates peritoneal irritation
What is Blumberg sign
A patient on TPN suddenly becomes hypoglycemic. What is the likely cause?
What is abrupt discontinuation of TPN
Which diagnostic test is MOST accurate for diagnosing GERD by measuring acid exposure over time?
What is esophageal pH monitoring
The priority nursing action for a patient actively bleeding from esophageal varices is this
What is establish large-bore IV access and monitor for shock
A sudden decrease in pain in a patient with a bleeding ulcer may indicate this
What is bleeding has neutralized stomach acid
A patient with suspected appendicitis should NOT receive this intervention due to risk of rupture
What is heat or enemas
A patient with intestinal obstruction develops increasing pain, fever, and tachycardia. What is the priority concern?
What is strangulation or perforation