Which of the following are common signs or symptoms of GI bleeding? (Select all that apply)
Hematochezia
Hypertension
Tarry stool
Coffee-ground emesis
Hematemesis
Correct Answer : A,C,D,E
A. This term refers to the passage of fresh blood through the anus, usually indicating lower GI bleeding (such as from the colon or rectum). It is a common and significant sign of GI bleeding.
B. Hypertension (high blood pressure) is generally not a sign of GI bleeding. In fact, GI bleeding typically leads to hypotension (low blood pressure) due to volume loss, making this choice incorrect.
C. Tarry stool (melena) indicates the presence of digested blood in the stool, typically resulting from upper GI bleeding. It appears black and sticky and is a common sign of GI bleeding.
D. This refers to vomiting that looks like coffee grounds, which indicates that blood has been present in the stomach and has undergone digestion. This is a classic sign of upper GI bleeding and is a significant symptom.
E. Hematemesis is the vomiting of blood, which can be bright red or resemble coffee grounds, depending on the source and severity of the bleeding. It is a common and serious sign of GI bleeding, particularly from the upper GI tract.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. While obtaining a sputum culture is important for identifying the causative organism and guiding antibiotic therapy, it is not an immediate priority. Delaying this test briefly for critical interventions (like oxygen administration) is acceptable, as stabilizing the patient's oxygen levels is more urgent.
B. Educating the patient about vaccination is important for long-term health and prevention of future respiratory infections. However, it does not address the current situation and does not provide immediate benefit for the acute episode of pneumonia.
C. The patient has a SpO2 of 91%, which indicates hypoxemia (low oxygen levels in the blood). In pneumonia, adequate oxygenation is crucial to prevent further respiratory distress and potential complications. Administering oxygen therapy will help improve the oxygen saturation and support the patient’s respiratory function, making this the highest priority intervention.
D. While antibiotics are essential for treating bacterial pneumonia, they may take time to exert their effects. In this acute scenario, the immediate need is to ensure the patient is adequately oxygenated. After oxygen is administered, antibiotics can be given promptly.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Prednisone can lead to sodium and fluid retention, which can result in hypertension and edema. While this is an important consideration, it is not the most critical point to emphasize initially. Managing weight and blood pressure is essential, but there are more immediate concerns with the medication's use.
B. Long-term use of prednisone can result in changes such as fat redistribution, leading to a "moon face," buffalo hump, and increased abdominal fat. This is significant for understanding the side effects of prolonged therapy, but it is not the most urgent information for the client to know.
C. Prednisone can cause side effects such as mood changes, anxiety, or jitteriness, especially when initiating treatment or adjusting dosages. While this is relevant, the potential for emotional or psychological effects is secondary to the critical management of the medication.
D. This is the most critical point to emphasize. Prednisone is a corticosteroid that can suppress the body's natural adrenal function. Abrupt discontinuation can lead to adrenal crisis, which can be life- threatening.
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