Critical Care- GI Questions and Answers

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Critical Care- GI Questions and Answers | Latest Version | 2025/2026 | Correct & Verified

What is the primary goal in managing a patient with gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding in the ICU?

• To administer oral antacids

✔✔B. To stabilize the patient’s hemodynamic status and stop the bleeding

• To encourage early ambulation
• To administer laxatives for bowel movement

Which of the following is a key indicator of severe liver dysfunction in a critically ill patient?✔✔A. Jaundice and prolonged prothrombin time

• Increased white blood cell count
• Decreased blood glucose levels
• Decreased bilirubin levels

What is the most appropriate intervention for a patient with acute pancreatitis in the ICU?

• Administer large volumes of IV fluids with potassium

✔✔B. NPO (nothing by mouth) and supportive care 1 / 4

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• Encourage oral intake of clear liquids
• Administer insulin immediately

Which of the following signs indicates possible perforation of the gastrointestinal tract?

• Abdominal distention without pain
• Mild nausea with no fever

✔✔C. Sudden severe abdominal pain with a rigid, board-like abdomen

• Increased bowel sounds and diarrhea

What is a common complication in a critically ill patient who is receiving enteral nutrition (EN)?✔✔A. Aspiration pneumonia

• Hypertension
• Hyperglycemia
• Hypokalemia

What is the most important consideration when administering intravenous (IV) fluids to a patient with gastrointestinal (GI) loss (e.g., vomiting, diarrhea)?

• To ensure fluid restriction to avoid overload 2 / 4

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✔✔B. To replace lost fluids and electrolytes

• To increase the patient’s caloric intake
• To monitor blood pressure and heart rate

What should the nurse monitor closely for a patient with a suspected bowel obstruction?

• Serum albumin levels

✔✔B. Abdominal distention and pain

• Respiratory rate and oxygen saturation
• Blood glucose levels

What is the best approach for managing a critically ill patient with acute gastrointestinal bleeding?✔✔A. Establish IV access and administer fluids and blood products as necessary

• Start a high-protein diet immediately
• Place the patient in a supine position to reduce bleeding
• Provide large doses of aspirin for pain relief

Which of the following interventions is most important for a patient with acute liver failure? 3 / 4

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• Monitor for signs of hyperkalemia

✔✔B. Closely monitor liver function tests and coagulation studies

• Administer potassium-sparing diuretics
• Encourage high-protein meals

What is the priority action for a nurse when a patient with cirrhosis develops a sudden increase in abdominal girth?✔✔A. Assess for signs of ascites and notify the healthcare provider

• Administer diuretics immediately
• Encourage the patient to increase fluid intake
• Provide analgesics for abdominal discomfort

What is a common cause of upper GI bleeding in critically ill patients?

• Esophageal varices rupture

✔✔B. Peptic ulcer disease

• Gastric reflux disease
• Acute pancreatitis
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