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

What is the purpose of the WHO Surgical Safety Checklist?

1. ATo list the training and experience of the surgeon
2. BTo replace informed consent for planned operations
3. CTo record what the patient would like to eat and drink after surgery
4. DTo ensure key safety checks happen before, during and after surgery

What is an escharotomy?

1. ARemoval of the whole limb after a deep, extensive burn
2. BA cut through burned, tight skin to relieve pressure
3. CPlacing a skin graft on a burn
4. DDraining a blister with a needle

Which adverse effects are linked with NSAIDs such as ibuprofen?

1. AHair loss and low white cell count
2. BWeight gain and high potassium only
3. CStomach bleeding and kidney injury
4. DConstipation and pinpoint pupils

Which practice is correct when giving parenteral nutrition through a central line?

1. ADisconnect and reconnect the line without cleaning the hub
2. BLet the bag hang at room temperature for several days
3. CUse a dedicated lumen and strict aseptic technique
4. DGive other IV drugs through the same lumen to save time

What is tumour lysis syndrome?

1. AA skin reaction in an area recently treated with radiotherapy
2. BA slow-growing tumour that presses on the nerves
3. CAn allergic reaction to a chemotherapy infusion
4. DA metabolic emergency from rapid breakdown of cancer cells

Which presentation fits acute diverticulitis?

1. ACentral chest pain spreading to the left arm
2. BPainless jaundice with a palpable gallbladder
3. CRight upper abdominal pain after fatty meals
4. DLeft lower abdominal pain, fever and a raised CRP

A patient with bowel obstruction develops constant severe pain (no longer colicky), fever, a heart rate of 120/min and a rigid, tender abdomen. What does this suggest?

1. AThe obstruction is resolving as the bowel starts to move
2. BStrangulation or perforation needing urgent surgical review
3. CNormal progress that only needs regular simple analgesia
4. DConstipation that should be treated with a stimulant laxative

On day 6 after abdominal surgery, a patient says something "gave way" when coughing, and bowel is visible through the wound. What should the nurse do immediately?

1. ACover with saline-soaked sterile dressings, bend the knees, call the surgeon
2. BPush the bowel back gently and tape the wound edges together firmly
3. CLeave the wound uncovered and sit the patient fully upright in bed
4. DGive the patient a light meal to calm them while waiting for the team