A nurse is teaching student nurses about different types of medical conditions that affect the gastrointestinal system, when a student asks her about the cause of esophageal varices. What is an appropriate answer by the nurse when asked about a potential cause of esophageal varices?
"Obesity has been a known cause of esophageal varices"
"It is caused by smoking"
"It is caused by high blood pressure"
"It is caused by chronic liver disease"
The Correct Answer is D
A. While obesity can contribute to various health issues, it is not a direct cause of esophageal varices.
B. Smoking is harmful to overall health, but it is not specifically known to cause esophageal varices.
C. High blood pressure, especially systemic hypertension, is not a direct cause of esophageal varices. However, portal hypertension, which can be caused by liver disease, is the main factor in the development of esophageal varices.
D. Chronic liver disease, particularly cirrhosis, leads to portal hypertension, which in turn causes the veins in the esophagus to become engorged and prone to bleeding, resulting in esophageal varices. This is the most appropriate cause for esophageal varices.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Administering anticoagulant medications is contraindicated in patients with bleeding esophageal varices. Anticoagulants could worsen bleeding and complicate the condition further. The goal in managing esophageal varices is to control the bleeding, not to increase the risk of bleeding.
B. Monitoring vital signs frequently is critical in patients with bleeding esophageal varices, as they are at risk for hypovolemic shock. Vital signs should be monitored closely to assess for signs of bleeding, hemodynamic instability, and response to interventions. Typically, more frequent monitoring (every 15 minutes initially, then every hour) is indicated, not just every 4 hours.
C. A high-fiber diet is not appropriate for patients with bleeding esophageal varices. This can increase intra-abdominal pressure and may worsen bleeding. The diet should be tailored to the patient's needs, typically involving low-residue or soft foods depending on their condition.
D. Assisting with the insertion and removal of the balloon tamponade device should be done by a skilled provider, not the nurse. The nurse's role involves monitoring for complications, ensuring proper positioning, and assessing the patient's response to treatment.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Sleeping on the stomach is not recommended for patients with GERD because it can increase pressure on the stomach, promoting acid reflux.
B. Lying on the right side can actually worsen GERD symptoms because it allows acid to flow more easily into the esophagus from the stomach, due to the positioning of the stomach and esophagus.
C. Sleeping on the back with the head flat does not provide sufficient elevation to prevent acid reflux, which can lead to symptoms worsening during the night.
D. Sleeping on the left side helps reduce the likelihood of acid reflux. This position prevents the stomach's contents from moving up into the esophagus, making it the most effective sleeping position for GERD.
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