Question 1

Which of the following best describes the function of the villi in the small intestine?

Accepted Answer

They increase the surface area for absorption of nutrients and water.

Question 2

A patient presents with yellowing of the sclera (scleral icterus). Which condition is most likely responsible for this symptom?

Accepted Answer

Jaundice

Question 3

Which enzyme is responsible for breaking down carbohydrates in both the oral cavity and the small intestine?

Accepted Answer

Amylase

Question 4

A patient is diagnosed with a volvulus. What is the primary risk associated with this condition?

Accepted Answer

Twisting of the intestine leading to obstruction and decreased blood flow

Question 5

Which of the following terms is correctly matched with its meaning?

Accepted Answer

-logy = study of

Question 6

During an upper gastrointestinal series, which substance is swallowed to visualize the GI tract on x-ray?

Accepted Answer

Barium contrast medium

Question 7

Which structure prevents food from entering the trachea during swallowing?

Accepted Answer

Epiglottis

Question 8

A patient with Crohn disease is most likely to have which of the following findings on examination of the intestine?

Accepted Answer

Thickened wall with ulcers and partial obstruction

Question 9

Which of the following best describes the process of peristalsis?

Accepted Answer

Involuntary, coordinated muscular contractions that move food through the GI tract

Question 10

A nasogastric (NG) tube is primarily used for which of the following purposes?

Accepted Answer

Administering liquid feedings or drugs to the stomach

Question 11

Which hormone stimulates the gallbladder to release bile in response to fatty chyme in the duodenum?

Accepted Answer

Cholecystokinin

Question 12

A patient with a history of alcoholism presents with a liver that is enlarged, nodular, and has decreased function. What is the most likely diagnosis?

Accepted Answer

Cirrhosis

Question 13

Which of the following is the correct order of the segments of the small intestine from proximal to distal?

Accepted Answer

Duodenum, jejunum, ileum

Question 14

A patient is found to have a gallstone blocking the lower common bile duct. Which of the following complications is most likely to occur?

Accepted Answer

Prevention of pancreatic digestive enzymes from entering the duodenum

Question 15

Which of the following best describes the function of the pyloric sphincter?

Accepted Answer

Regulates the passage of chyme from the stomach to the duodenum

Question 16

A patient with diverticulitis is at increased risk for which of the following complications?

Accepted Answer

Infection of the diverticulum due to trapped feces

Question 17

Which of the following laboratory or diagnostic procedures involves the insertion of a contrast medium through the rectum to visualize the colon on x-ray?

Accepted Answer

Barium enema

Question 18

Which of the following is a correct definition for the medical term 'gastroenterology'?

Accepted Answer

The study of the stomach and intestines

Question 19

Which of the following best describes the process of chemical digestion?

Accepted Answer

Breakdown of food by enzymes, acids, and other substances

Question 20

A patient with a strangulated hernia is at risk for which of the following complications?

Accepted Answer

Necrosis of the trapped intestinal tissue

Med Terms Chap 4

Study Guide - Practice Questions

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