A client with a tentative diagnosis of a gastric ulcer is scheduled for an endoscopy. Which concern should the practical nurse (PN) expect this client to have after the procedure is completed?
Sore throat.
Clay-colored stools.
Pain in the mid-abdominal area.
White, chalky emesis.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason: A sore throat is a common and expected concern after an endoscopy. During the procedure, an endoscope is passed through the mouth and down the throat to examine the upper gastrointestinal tract, which can cause irritation and discomfort in the throat. This is typically temporary and can be managed with soothing remedies such as warm saltwater gargles or throat lozenges. The practical nurse should reassure the client that a sore throat is a normal side effect and provide appropriate comfort measures.
Choice B reason: Clay-colored stools are not typically associated with an endoscopy. This finding is more indicative of a problem with bile flow, possibly related to liver or gallbladder conditions. The presence of clay-colored stools suggests that bile is not reaching the intestines, which can occur in conditions such as biliary obstruction. While it is an important symptom to report, it is not directly related to the endoscopic procedure.
Choice C reason: Pain in the mid-abdominal area is not a common post-endoscopy concern. While some mild discomfort or bloating can occur due to the air introduced into the stomach during the procedure, severe or persistent mid-abdominal pain is not expected and should be evaluated further. This symptom could indicate a complication such as perforation, which is rare but serious.
Choice D reason: White, chalky emesis is not a typical concern after an endoscopy. This type of emesis may be related to the ingestion of barium, a contrast material used in certain radiologic studies, but it is not associated with an endoscopic examination. If a client experiences white, chalky emesis, further investigation is needed to determine the cause, but it is not a normal post-endoscopy symptom.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: A blood pressure measurement of 80/60 mm Hg is significantly low and may indicate hypotension, which can lead to symptoms such as dizziness, fainting, or shock. This requires immediate action to assess and manage the client's condition to prevent complications.
Choice B reason: A blood pressure measurement of 140/90 mm Hg indicates hypertension, which is a concern but does not require immediate emergency intervention. It requires follow-up and management to prevent long-term health issues.
Choice C reason: A blood pressure measurement of 130/85 mm Hg is considered elevated but not critically high. It is important to monitor and manage, but it does not require immediate emergency action.
Choice D reason: A blood pressure measurement of 120/90 mm Hg is slightly elevated diastolic pressure but not critically so. It is important to monitor, but it does not necessitate immediate emergency intervention.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Hematemesis, or vomiting of blood, is a critical symptom to monitor in a client with esophageal varices. Esophageal varices are enlarged veins in the esophagus that can rupture and bleed due to increased pressure in the portal venous system, a common complication of cirrhosis. Hematemesis indicates a potentially life-threatening variceal bleed that requires immediate medical intervention. Reporting this finding promptly ensures that the healthcare team can take swift action to manage the bleeding and stabilize the client.
Choice B reason: Anorexia, or loss of appetite, is a common symptom in clients with chronic liver disease, including cirrhosis. While it is important to address nutritional concerns, anorexia does not directly indicate a life-threatening complication like variceal bleeding. Monitoring for anorexia is essential for overall health and nutritional support, but it is not the most immediate concern in this scenario.
Choice C reason: Clay-colored stools can indicate a lack of bile in the stool, which may occur due to biliary obstruction or impaired bile flow. While this finding is significant and requires attention, it is not as urgent as hematemesis in the context of esophageal varices. Clay-colored stools may suggest other complications related to liver function but do not indicate an immediate life-threatening situation.
Choice D reason: Brown, foamy urine may indicate the presence of blood or protein in the urine, which can occur in various kidney and urinary tract disorders. While this finding is important to monitor, it is not directly related to esophageal varices or their complications. The primary concern with esophageal varices is the risk of bleeding, which is best indicated by hematemesis.
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