The nursing student is reviewing the chart of a patient admitted with ulcerative colitis. Which findings will the student identify to the nursing instructor as consistent with the patient's diagnosis? (Select All That Apply)
Hard, rigid abdomen and herniation of the umbilicus
Pallor, anemia, and fatigue
Abdominal cramping and passing of six or more liquid stools per day
Dehydration, vomiting, and weight loss
Free air in the peritoneum and bowel dilation on abdominal x-ray
Correct Answer : B,C,D
Choice A reason: A hard, rigid abdomen and herniation of the umbilicus are not typical findings in ulcerative colitis. These symptoms may indicate other abdominal conditions such as hernia or peritonitis, but are not specific to ulcerative colitis.
Choice B reason: Pallor, anemia, and fatigue are consistent with ulcerative colitis due to chronic blood loss and inflammation. These symptoms indicate the body's response to ongoing disease activity and nutritional deficiencies.
Choice C reason: Abdominal cramping and passing of six or more liquid stools per day are hallmark symptoms of ulcerative colitis. These symptoms reflect active inflammation in the colon, leading to frequent and urgent bowel movements.
Choice D reason: Dehydration, vomiting, and weight loss are also consistent with ulcerative colitis, especially during severe flare-ups. These symptoms result from the body's inability to absorb nutrients and fluids properly due to inflammation.
Choice E reason: Free air in the peritoneum and bowel dilation on abdominal x-ray are more indicative of a perforation or obstruction, which are potential but severe complications of ulcerative colitis. These findings would require immediate medical attention.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason:
- Ondansetron on a PRN basis is used to manage nausea and vomiting. In patients with inflammatory bowel disease, especially during an inpatient stay, controlling nausea is important to maintain comfort and prevent dehydration. This makes it an appropriate symptomatic treatment.
Choice B reason:
- Vitamin B12 injections may be indicated in patients with Crohn’s disease who have malabsorption issues, particularly if the terminal ileum is involved. However, they are not routinely given to all patients with inflammatory bowel disease solely for the prevention of pernicious anemia.
Choice C reason:
- Antidiarrheal medications are generally contraindicated in inflammatory bowel disease, as they can mask important symptoms and may increase the risk of complications like toxic megacolon, especially if administered before meals.
Choice D reason:
- Beta adrenergic blockers are not used to reduce bowel motility. Their primary use is in cardiovascular conditions, and they do not address the gastrointestinal symptoms associated with inflammatory bowel disease.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason:
- Bronchoconstriction is the hallmark of COPD. The narrowing of the airways produces wheezing that is heard throughout the lung fields, making this finding consistent with the patient’s condition.
Choice B reason:
- Pulmonary edema usually causes crackles (rales), not widespread wheezing. It’s more related to fluid overload in the lungs rather than airway narrowing.
Choice C reason:
- Hemoptysis involves coughing up blood. This symptom does not correlate with wheezing and would be noted as blood in the sputum, not an audible finding on auscultation.
Choice D reason:
- Pneumothorax typically presents with diminished or absent breath sounds on the affected side, not diffuse wheezing. It is more associated with sudden chest pain and respiratory distress.
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