What diagnostic test should the nurse anticipate for an older patient who is vomiting "coffee-ground" emesis?
Endoscopy
Barium studies
Angiography
Gastric analysis
The Correct Answer is A
"Coffee-ground" emesis is a term used to describe vomit that has the appearance of coffee grounds, which indicates that the vomit contains partially digested blood. This is a serious symptom that could be indicative of an upper gastrointestinal bleed. An endoscopy is a diagnostic test that allows healthcare providers to visually examine the upper gastrointestinal tract and identify the source of bleeding.
Barium studies and angiography are not typically used to diagnose upper gastrointestinal bleeds. Gastric analysis may be useful in other diagnostic situations, but it is not the most appropriate test for a patient with "coffee-ground" emesis.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Cushing syndrome is caused by excessive cortisol production by the adrenal glands, which can result in weight gain and redistribution of fat to the abdomen, giving it a characteristic rounded appearance.
The other options mentioned in the question are not typically associated with Cushing syndrome. Chronically low blood pressure is not typically seen in Cushing syndrome, as cortisol is a hormone that can raise blood pressure. A bronzed appearance of the skin is more commonly seen in conditions like Addison's disease, where there is a deficiency of cortisol. Decreased axillary and pubic hair is not a common finding in Cushing syndrome, although excessive hair growth (hirsutism) may occur due to the excess of androgens produced by the adrenal glands.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
The nurse should quickly assess the patient's vital signs to check for signs of shock and instability. If the vital signs are unstable, the nurse should initiate appropriate interventions to stabilize the patient, such as administering oxygen, starting IV fluids, and providing continuous cardiac monitoring. Based on the sudden onset of severe upper abdominal pain, diaphoresis, and a firm abdomen, the nurse should suspect a possible perforation or bleeding related to the peptic ulcer. This is a medical emergency that requires immediate intervention. Therefore, the nurse should prioritize notifying the healthcare provider and preparing the patient for urgent medical evaluation.
Option A, irrigating the NG tube, is not appropriate in this situation and may further exacerbate the patient's condition if the ulcer has perforated.
Option B, elevating the foot of the bed, is also not appropriate as it does not address the patient's current symptoms.
Option C, giving the ordered antacid, may not be effective in addressing the severity of the patient's symptoms and should be postponed until the healthcare provider has evaluated the patient.
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