Question 1

Which enzyme is responsible for the initial breakdown of starch in the mouth, and what is its primary digestive action?

Accepted Answer

Ptyalin (salivary amylase); breaks down starch into dextrin and maltose

Question 2

A patient presents with difficulty swallowing and frequent heartburn. Which age-related change in the gastrointestinal system is most likely contributing to these symptoms?

Accepted Answer

Decreased strength of esophageal contractions and lower esophageal sphincter

Question 3

Which of the following best describes the function of the ileocecal valve?

Accepted Answer

Regulates the flow of contents from the small intestine to the large intestine

Question 4

A patient is scheduled for a colonoscopy. Which of the following nursing interventions is most important to prevent complications related to the procedure?

Accepted Answer

Monitor for signs of bowel perforation after the procedure

Question 5

Which of the following statements about the gut microbiome is TRUE?

Accepted Answer

It assists in vitamin synthesis and immune function

Question 6

A hydrogen breath test is ordered for a patient. What is the primary purpose of this test?

Accepted Answer

To evaluate carbohydrate absorption and diagnose bacterial overgrowth

Question 7

Which of the following best explains why the stomach is not the primary site for nutrient absorption?

Accepted Answer

The stomach's mucosa is specialized for secretion and mixing, not absorption

Question 8

A patient is found to have a deficiency in intrinsic factor. Which condition is most likely to develop as a result?

Accepted Answer

Pernicious anemia

Question 9

Which of the following is a major function of the colon?

Accepted Answer

Reabsorption of water and electrolytes

Question 10

A patient is undergoing a urea breath test. Which organism is this test designed to detect?

Accepted Answer

Helicobacter pylori

Question 11

Which of the following best describes the role of bile in digestion?

Accepted Answer

Bile emulsifies fats for digestion and absorption

Question 12

A patient presents with separate hard lumps in their stool, as shown in the Bristol Stool Form Scale. Which type is this, and what does it indicate?

Accepted Answer

Type 1; indicates constipation

Question 13

Which of the following arteries supplies blood to the stomach?

Accepted Answer

Gastric artery

Question 14

During a physical assessment of the abdomen, why is auscultation performed before percussion and palpation?

Accepted Answer

To avoid altering bowel sounds

Question 15

Which of the following best describes the effect of sympathetic nervous system stimulation on the GI tract?

Accepted Answer

Decreases gastric secretion and constricts sphincters

Question 16

A patient is being evaluated for colorectal cancer. Which tumor marker is most useful for monitoring treatment effectiveness and early detection of recurrence?

Accepted Answer

Carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA)

Question 17

Which of the following best explains why broad-spectrum antibiotics can lead to gastrointestinal disturbances?

Accepted Answer

They disrupt the gut microbiota, allowing overgrowth of pathogenic species

Question 18

A patient is scheduled for an MRI of the abdomen. Which of the following pre-procedure instructions is most appropriate?

Accepted Answer

Remove all jewelry and metal objects

Question 19

Which of the following is a correct equation for calculating the osmolar gap in stool studies?

Accepted Answer

$$	ext{Osmolar gap} = 290 - 2 	imes (	ext{stool Na} + 	ext{stool K})$$

Question 20

A patient with suspected achalasia is scheduled for esophageal manometry. What is the primary purpose of this test?

Accepted Answer

To measure changes in intraluminal pressures and muscle activity

Chapter 39: Assessment of Digestive and Gastrointestinal Function

Study Guide - Practice Questions

Study Guide - Flashcards