A patient has been diagnosed with ulcerative colitis (UC) for several years. Which assessment finding would alert the nurse of a potential complication from UC?
Moist mucous membranes and good skin turgor
Recent diagnosis of UC in a sibling
Occasional episodes of hematochezia.
A report of stool leaking from the patient's vagina.
The Correct Answer is D
A. Several episodes of black and tarry stools: This indicates melena, which is typically associated with upper gastrointestinal bleeding, not specifically Crohn's disease.
B. Several episodes of hematochezia per day: Hematochezia (fresh blood in stools) can occur in Crohn's disease due to inflammation and ulceration in the intestines.
C. Post-alcohol ingestion epigastric pain: This is more commonly associated with gastritis or peptic ulcer disease, not Crohn's disease.
D. An oral temperature of 102°F: While fever can occur in Crohn's disease during acute flare-ups, it is not a specific or definitive symptom of the condition. The primary symptoms are gastrointestinal in nature, such as abdominal pain and altered bowel habits.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Paralytic ileus: Paralytic ileus is a common complication of major abdominal surgery and prolonged bed rest. It is a temporary cessation of normal bowel peristalsis, leading to a lack of bowel sounds and the inability to pass gas or stool.
B. Esophageal dysplasia: This condition refers to abnormal changes in the cells of the esophagus, typically related to chronic gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), not prolonged bed rest.
C. Gastroparesis: This is a condition in which the stomach cannot empty itself of food in a normal fashion, often related to diabetes or damage to the vagus nerve. It is not a direct result of prolonged bed rest.
D. Paralytic ileum: This should refer to "paralytic ileus."
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. An increased serum calcitonin level: Calcitonin is involved in lowering blood calcium levels, so increased levels would not indicate hypercalcemia but rather a compensatory mechanism to lower calcium.
B. An increased number of osteocytes: Osteocytes are bone cells, and their number is not a direct indicator of hypercalcemia. Osteoclasts and osteoblasts are more relevant to bone metabolism.
C. Elevated plasma magnesium levels: Elevated magnesium levels are not specifically indicative of hypercalcemia and can be related to other conditions.
D. An increased parathyroid hormone (PTH) level: Hypercalcemia can be associated with increased PTH levels, particularly in primary hyperparathyroidism. Elevated PTH can lead to increased calcium release from bones.
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