Med-surg: GI, perioperative & oncology worksheet with answers

How is the length of a nasogastric tube usually estimated before insertion?

1. AAny length, as long as the whole tube is inserted
2. BFrom the mouth to the knee on the same side of the body
3. CFrom the chin to the umbilicus in a straight line
4. DFrom the nose tip to the earlobe, then to the xiphisternum

What is dyspepsia?

1. AVomiting of blood after a large meal
2. BUpper abdominal discomfort, often called indigestion
3. CPain in the rectum on opening the bowels
4. DDifficulty swallowing solid food and tablets

Which feature is typical of ulcerative colitis?

1. AContinuous inflammation starting at the rectum
2. BPatchy inflammation anywhere from mouth to anus
3. CInflammation of the full thickness of the small bowel
4. DInflammation limited to the oesophagus

Which finding means a patient is usually ready to leave recovery for the ward?

1. ASystolic BP falling steadily over the last hour, with a rising pulse rate
2. BPain score 9/10 and vomiting repeatedly
3. CStill drowsy and needing a jaw thrust to breathe
4. DAwake, with a clear airway, stable observations and controlled pain

Which statement about giving medicines through a feeding tube is correct?

1. AModified-release tablets should not be crushed
2. BAll tablets can be crushed together and given at once
3. CTubes do not need flushing between medicines
4. DMedicines can be added to the bag of feed

Why are patients taught to support their abdominal wound with a pillow when coughing?

1. AIt replaces the need for regular analgesia
2. BIt makes the cough weaker so the wound is not put at risk
3. CIt reduces pain and strain, so they can cough well
4. DIt speeds up the healing of the skin edges

During preoperative assessment, a patient says their brother had a "very high fever" during an anaesthetic. What is the most important action?

1. AGive paracetamol before surgery to prevent fever
2. BInform the anaesthetist, as malignant hyperthermia may run in the family
3. CRecord it as a family allergy to paracetamol
4. DReassure the patient that fevers after anaesthesia are always harmless

A nurse teaches a patient with a new ileostomy. Which statement shows a need for further teaching?

1. A"I'll drink less so my bag fills more slowly."
2. B"I'll watch for dizziness and dark urine."
3. C"I'll report if my output becomes very watery and high."
4. D"I'll chew my food well to avoid blockages."