The patient is having a gastroduodenostomy (Billroth I operation) for stomach cancer. Which complication is occurring when the patient reports generalized weakness, sweating, palpitations, and dizziness 15 minutes after eating?
Dumping syndrome
Bile reflux gastritis
Postprandial hypoglycemia
Malnutrition
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason: Dumping syndrome is a common complication after a gastroduodenostomy, where food moves too quickly from the stomach to the small intestine. Symptoms such as weakness, sweating, palpitations, and dizziness shortly after eating are typical indicators of this condition. This happens because the rapid passage of food causes fluid shifts in the body and a release of gut hormones that can lead to the symptoms experienced.
Choice B reason: Bile reflux gastritis involves the backflow of bile into the stomach, which can cause inflammation and discomfort. However, it does not typically present with the acute symptoms described in this scenario, such as weakness and dizziness shortly after eating. Symptoms of bile reflux gastritis usually include chronic pain, nausea, and vomiting.
Choice C reason: Postprandial hypoglycemia occurs when blood sugar levels drop significantly after eating. While it can cause symptoms like dizziness and weakness, it typically occurs a few hours after a meal, not 15 minutes post-consumption. The timing of the symptoms described aligns more with dumping syndrome.
Choice D reason: Malnutrition refers to the lack of proper nutrition caused by not having enough food or not eating the right things. It does not typically present with acute symptoms like those described in the question. Chronic symptoms of malnutrition include weight loss, fatigue, and weakness over a longer period.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: Monitoring bowel sounds is important for assessing gastrointestinal function, but it does not directly measure the effectiveness of lactulose in treating hepatic encephalopathy.
Choice B reason: Temperature monitoring is essential for detecting infection, but it does not indicate the effectiveness of lactulose in reducing ammonia levels.
Choice C reason: Abdominal pain should be monitored as a potential side effect of lactulose, but it is not an indicator of its effectiveness in treating hepatic encephalopathy.
Choice D reason: Stool frequency is the correct measure for monitoring the effectiveness of lactulose. Lactulose works by promoting the excretion of ammonia in the stool, thereby reducing serum ammonia levels and improving the symptoms of hepatic encephalopathy. Increased stool frequency indicates the medication is working.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: The use of a colostomy bag is expected following surgery for colorectal cancer that involves the creation of a stoma. This does not indicate a complication.
Choice B reason: A loss of appetite is common after major surgery and can be managed with nutritional support and gradual reintroduction of food.
Choice C reason: Absent bowel sounds in the lower abdominal quadrants could indicate a paralytic ileus or bowel obstruction, which are serious complications requiring immediate intervention to prevent further issues such as bowel ischemia.
Choice D reason: Mild pain at the surgical site is expected and can be managed with prescribed pain medications. It does not indicate a serious complication.
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