A patient is admitted with esophageal varices and portal hypertension. Which underlying cause of these conditions would the nurse suspect?
Liver cirrhosis
Throat lacerations
Kyphosis
Squamous cell cancer
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale
Liver cirrhosis is the most common cause of esophageal varices and portal hypertension. Cirrhosis leads to scarring of the liver, which impedes blood flow through the portal vein, causing increased pressure (portal hypertension) and the development of collateral blood vessels (varices) as the body attempts to bypass the blockage.
Choice B rationale
Throat lacerations are not related to the development of esophageal varices or portal hypertension. They are typically acute injuries and do not cause the chronic changes seen in the vasculature associated with these conditions.
Choice C rationale
Kyphosis, a curvature of the spine, does not cause esophageal varices or portal hypertension. It is a structural skeletal condition and does not affect the vasculature of the esophagus or the portal venous system.
Choice D rationale
While squamous cell cancer can occur in the esophagus, it is not a typical cause of portal hypertension or esophageal varices. These varices are usually a result of increased pressure in the portal vein, not directly from a malignancy.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["B","D","E"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale
While family history can contribute to the risk of developing certain conditions, it is not a direct risk factor for peptic ulcer disease.
Choice B rationale
A long-term smoking history is a known risk factor for peptic ulcer disease as it can increase gastric acid secretion and reduce the production of substances that protect the stomach lining.
Choice C rationale
The client denies alcohol use; therefore, it is not a contributing risk factor in this case. However, alcohol use is generally a risk factor for PUD due to its irritating effect on the stomach lining.
Choice D rationale
Being positive for Helicobacter pylori is one of the strongest risk factors for peptic ulcer disease. This bacterium damages the protective mucosal layer of the stomach and duodenum, leading to chronic inflammation and allowing acid to injure the underlying tissue. It is the leading cause of most gastric and duodenal ulcers worldwide.
Choice E rationale
NSAID use is a well-established risk factor for peptic ulcer disease as these medications can disrupt the protective lining of the stomach, leading to ulcers.
Correct Answer is ["A","C","D","E"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Removing catheters as soon as they are no longer necessary can significantly reduce the risk of catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTIs)¹.
Choice B rationale
While it is important for clients to urinate when they feel the urge, this practice alone is not specifically targeted at reducing the rate of urinary tract infections.
Choice C rationale
Teaching proper perineal care, including wiping from front to back, can help prevent the spread of bacteria to the urethra and reduce the risk of UTIs¹.
Choice D rationale
Continuing prescribed antibiotics until the full course is completed, even if symptoms improve, is crucial to ensure all bacteria are eliminated and to prevent antibiotic resistance³.
Choice E rationale
Adequate fluid intake helps flush bacteria from the urinary tract, which can decrease the incidence of UTIs¹.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.
