Gastrointestinal System Overview

Questions and Answers

What are four functions of the gastrointestinal system?

ingestion, digestion, absorption, elimination

List five normal age-related changes of the gastrointestinal system.

Ability to taste decreases, digestion takes longer and is less efficient, waste moves more slowly through intestines causing frequent constipation, difficulty chewing/swallowing, absorption of vitamins and minerals decreases.

List three normal qualities of stool.

Brown in color, soft, moist.

When is a fracture pan, rather than a standard bedpan, used for elimination?

For small or thin people who cannot lift their buttocks onto a standard bedpan. Signup and view all the answers

How should a standard bedpan be positioned?

With the wider end aligned with the resident's buttocks. Signup and view all the answers

How should a fracture pan be positioned?

With the handle toward the foot of the bed. Signup and view all the answers

List three possible treatments for constipation.

Increasing intake of fiber and fluids, physical activity, medication such as laxatives, enemas, or suppositories. Signup and view all the answers

What action should be avoided when providing perineal care for a resident who has hemorrhoids?

Excessive cleaning and wiping of the area should be avoided. Signup and view all the answers

What position must the resident be in for an enema?

The Sims position. Signup and view all the answers

If a resident feels pain while receiving an enema, what should the NA do?

Stop immediately. Signup and view all the answers

Why does a stool specimen need to be delivered to the lab immediately when testing for ova and parasites?

It needs to be warm. Signup and view all the answers

What items should not be included in a stool specimen?

Urine or toilet paper. Signup and view all the answers

How is occult blood found in stool?

Microscope or special chemical test. Signup and view all the answers

When may an ostomy be necessary?

Bowel disease, Crohn's disease, or colon cancer. Signup and view all the answers

How do colostomies and ileostomies differ?

Ileostomy is a surgically created opening in the end of the small intestine; colostomy is a surgically created opening into the large intestine. Signup and view all the answers

How many people are needed to use a bariatric mechanical lift to safely transfer a resident who is obese?

At least two. Signup and view all the answers

The basic structural units of all organisms are called:

Cells. Signup and view all the answers

________ is the condition in which all of the body's systems are balanced and are working at their best.

Homeostasis. Signup and view all the answers

How should a resident who has gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) be positioned after eating?

Sitting upright. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Gastrointestinal System Functions

Four primary functions: ingestion, digestion, absorption, elimination.

Decreased ability to taste and slower digestion.
Waste moves more slowly, increasing constipation frequency.
Difficulty in chewing and swallowing; decreased absorption of vitamins and minerals.

Normal Qualities of Stool

Typical stool characteristics include brown color, soft texture, and moist consistency.

Bedpan Usage

Fracture pans are designated for small or thin individuals unable to lift themselves onto a standard bedpan.

Bedpan Positioning

Standard bedpan: wider end aligned with the resident's buttocks.
Fracture pan: handle oriented towards the foot of the bed.

Treatments for Constipation

Enhance fiber and fluid intake, promote physical activity.
Utilize medications like laxatives, enemas, or suppositories.

Perineal Care for Hemorrhoids

Avoid excessive cleaning and wiping of the affected area to prevent irritation.

Enema Administration Position

Residents should be positioned in the Sims position for effective enema administration.

Response to Pain During Enema

Immediate cessation of the procedure if the resident experiences pain.

Stool Specimen for Ova and Parasites

Must be delivered to the lab while warm to ensure accurate testing.

Stool Specimen Collection Guidelines

Ensure that urine or toilet paper is not included in the stool sample.

Occult Blood Detection

Identified through microscopic examination or special chemical tests.

Ostomy Necessity

Required in conditions like bowel disease, Crohn's disease, or colon cancer.

Differences Between Colostomies and Ileostomies

Ileostomy: opening created at the end of the small intestine.
Colostomy: opening created in the large intestine.

Bariatric Mechanical Lift Requirements

Minimum of two individuals needed for safely transferring an obese resident.

Basic Structural Units of Organisms

Cells are recognized as the fundamental building blocks of all living organisms.

Homeostasis Definition

Homeostasis refers to the body's condition of balance and optimal functioning across all systems.

Positioning for GERD

Residents with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) should remain sitting upright post-meal to alleviate symptoms.

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Description

This quiz covers the functions and age-related changes of the gastrointestinal system, including normal stool qualities and proper bedpan usage. Test your knowledge on treatments for constipation and perineal care for hemorrhoids. Ideal for healthcare students and professionals.