A patient with a history of ulcerative colitis presents to the clinic with complaints of fatigue, dizziness, and pallor. Upon further assessment, you suspect chronic blood loss. Which potential complication is most likely contributing to these symptoms?
Dehydration
Hyperkalemia
Iron-deficiency anemia
Electrolyte imbalance
The Correct Answer is C
A. Dehydration: While dehydration is a possible complication in ulcerative colitis, it does not explain the symptoms of fatigue and pallor.
B. Hyperkalemia: Hyperkalemia is not typically associated with chronic blood loss and would present with symptoms like muscle weakness or arrhythmias.
C. Iron-deficiency anemia: Chronic blood loss from frequent diarrhea and ulceration of the colon in ulcerative colitis can lead to iron-deficiency anemia, causing symptoms like fatigue, dizziness, and pallor.
D. Electrolyte imbalance: While electrolyte imbalances may occur with ulcerative colitis, they do not directly cause fatigue, dizziness, and pallor related to chronic blood loss.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Costovertebral angle tenderness: Costovertebral angle tenderness is more indicative of pyelonephritis (kidney infection) rather than cystitis, as it signals an upper urinary tract infection.
B. Suprapubic tenderness: Suprapubic tenderness is a classic sign of cystitis. This symptom, combined with dysuria and increased urinary frequency, strongly supports the diagnosis.
C. Abdominal distention: Abdominal distention is not typically associated with cystitis. It may suggest other conditions like bowel obstruction or ascites.
D. Lower extremity edema: Lower extremity edema is not a common finding in cystitis. It is more associated with systemic conditions like heart failure or kidney disease.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. "You will need to avoid high-fiber foods to prevent blockages": While caution with high-fiber foods may be needed initially, long-term, a balanced diet including fiber can help regulate bowel movements and prevent constipation. This statement could cause unnecessary concern.
B. "The output from your stoma will be mostly liquid": This statement is incorrect for a sigmoid colostomy, where the stool tends to be more formed since it is further along the digestive tract. Liquid output is more common with ileostomies or colostomies higher in the colon.
C. "You will need to change your colostomy bag every 24 hours":
Rationale: Colostomy bag changes depend on several factors, including the type of appliance and personal preferences. Bags are not changed on a strict 24-hour schedule but are emptied as needed and changed every few days or when required.
D. "Your stoma will be located on the left side of your abdomen." A sigmoid colostomy is typically located on the left lower quadrant of the abdomen, as this is the anatomical location of the sigmoid colon.
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.