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NU 136 Exam 2 ACTUAL EXAM [ QUESTION 1- 200] AND
ANSWERS UPDATED 2026/2027| 100% VERIFIED|DETAILED
RATIONALES –PASS GUARANTEED A+ GRADED |INSTANT
DOWNLOAD
Introduction:
**NU 136 Exam 2 Updated Version provides an extensive original practice set designed to
strengthen clinical reasoning across gastrointestinal and urinary elimination concepts. The
questions emphasize assessment, normal and abnormal findings, bowel and urinary elimination,
constipation, diarrhea, urinary diversion, and nursing interventions. Rather than functioning as
a brain dump, this material uses patient scenarios that require prioritization, interpretation of
findings, application of nursing principles, and selection of safe interventions. The practice
questions are intended to help learners connect foundational anatomy and physiology with
practical nursing decision-making. Reviewing the rationales after each question can help
identify knowledge gaps, distinguish similar clinical conditions, and reinforce why particular
interventions are appropriate. Candidates should use this set alongside their course objectives,
lecture materials, instructor guidance, and assigned textbook resources because institutional NU
136 Exam 2 blueprints can vary. The questions below are original educational practice material
and are not reproduced from a confidential or proprietary examination. Consistent practice with
scenario-based questions can improve clinical judgment, test-taking confidence, and readiness
for course examinations.**
Core Domains Covered:
1. Gastrointestinal Assessment: Systematic history taking, abdominal inspection, auscultation,
percussion, palpation, and interpretation of relevant findings.
2. Bowel Elimination: Normal bowel patterns, factors affecting elimination, nursing assessment,
interventions, and patient education.
3. Constipation: Causes, risk factors, assessment findings, prevention, treatment principles, and
recognition of complications.
4. Diarrhea: Assessment, fluid and electrolyte concerns, infection-control considerations,
complications, and nursing management.
5. Urinary Elimination: Normal urinary function, assessment of urinary patterns, retention,
incontinence, and factors affecting elimination.
6. Urinary Diversion: Types of urinary diversions, expected findings, stoma assessment,
appliance care, and patient education.
7. Clinical Prioritization and Safety: Recognition of urgent findings, appropriate nursing
interventions, delegation, monitoring, and patient-centered education.
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Questions
Question 1: A nurse is preparing to perform an abdominal assessment on a patient who reports
new abdominal discomfort. Which sequence should the nurse use?
A) Palpation, percussion, auscultation, inspection
B) Inspection, auscultation, percussion, palpation
C) Auscultation, palpation, inspection, percussion
D) Percussion, palpation, auscultation, inspection
Rationale: The correct answer is B because abdominal assessment follows the sequence of
inspection, auscultation, percussion, and palpation. Auscultation is performed before percussion
and palpation because manipulating the abdomen can alter bowel sounds. Option A is incorrect
because palpation should not precede auscultation. Option C is incorrect because palpation
should not be performed before the other assessment techniques. Option D is incorrect because
inspection and auscultation should occur before percussion and palpation.**
Question 2: During an abdominal assessment, which finding should the nurse recognize as
requiring further evaluation?
A) Symmetrical abdomen
B) Soft abdomen without tenderness
C) Board-like abdominal rigidity
D) Active bowel sounds
Rationale: The correct answer is C because marked rigidity can indicate significant intra-
abdominal pathology and requires prompt evaluation. Options A, B, and D can be normal
findings depending on the clinical context. A symmetrical abdomen is generally expected, a soft
nontender abdomen is reassuring, and active bowel sounds can occur normally.**
Question 3: A patient reports having bowel movements every other day without straining,
discomfort, or hard stools. Which interpretation is most appropriate?
A) The patient has chronic constipation
B) The patient has impaired bowel elimination
C) The frequency may represent the patient's normal bowel pattern
D) The patient requires a daily laxative
Rationale: The correct answer is C because normal bowel frequency varies among individuals.
Constipation is better identified by symptoms such as hard stools, difficulty passing stool,
straining, or a significant change from the patient's established pattern. Options A and B
incorrectly assume abnormality based solely on frequency. Option D is inappropriate because
routine laxative use is not indicated solely because a patient does not have a daily bowel
movement.**
Question 4: Which patient has the greatest risk for constipation?
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A) A patient who walks regularly and drinks adequate fluids
B) A patient consuming a fiber-rich diet
C) A patient receiving opioids with limited mobility
D) A patient with regular physical activity and adequate hydration
Rationale: The correct answer is C because opioids decrease gastrointestinal motility, while
immobility can further contribute to constipation. Options A and D describe factors that
generally support normal bowel function. Option B describes a dietary factor that can help
prevent constipation when adequate fluid intake is maintained.**
Question 5: A postoperative patient receiving opioid analgesics has not had a bowel movement
and reports abdominal fullness. Which intervention should the nurse consider first after assessing
the patient?
A) Restrict oral fluids
B) Encourage prolonged bed rest
C) Promote mobility and adequate fluid intake when not contraindicated
D) Administer an antidiarrheal medication
Rationale: The correct answer is C because mobility and adequate hydration support
gastrointestinal motility and stool passage. Option A can worsen constipation. Option B further
reduces gastrointestinal stimulation. Option D is inappropriate because an antidiarrheal would
worsen constipation.**
Question 6: Which assessment finding most strongly suggests constipation rather than normal
variation?
A) A bowel movement every two days without symptoms
B) Stool passed easily
C) Hard, dry stools accompanied by straining
D) A consistent bowel pattern that is comfortable for the patient
Rationale: The correct answer is C because hard, dry stools and straining are characteristic
features of constipation. Frequency alone does not establish constipation. Options A and D may
represent normal individual patterns, while B describes uncomplicated elimination.**
Question 7: A nurse teaches a patient how dietary fiber supports bowel elimination. Which
explanation is most accurate?
A) Fiber completely stops intestinal movement
B) Fiber eliminates the need for fluid intake
C) Fiber increases stool bulk and can support regular bowel function
D) Fiber should always be avoided when constipation occurs
Rationale: The correct answer is C because dietary fiber increases stool bulk and can promote
regular bowel function. Adequate fluid intake is also important. Option A is incorrect because
, Page |4
fiber does not stop intestinal movement. Option B is incorrect because fiber does not replace
hydration. Option D is incorrect because fiber is commonly used as part of constipation
prevention and management when appropriate.**
Question 8: A patient with constipation asks why increased activity may help bowel elimination.
Which response is best?
A) “Activity prevents all gastrointestinal disorders.”
B) “Activity immediately removes impacted stool.”
C) “Physical activity can stimulate gastrointestinal motility.”
D) “Activity replaces the need for adequate hydration.”
Rationale: The correct answer is C because physical movement can promote gastrointestinal
motility. Option A is too absolute. Option B incorrectly promises immediate resolution of
constipation. Option D is incorrect because activity does not replace appropriate fluid intake.**
Question 9: A patient reports several episodes of watery stool during the past day. Which
assessment is most important initially?
A) Hair texture
B) Visual acuity
C) Hydration status and associated symptoms
D) Nail length
Rationale: The correct answer is C because diarrhea can cause significant fluid and electrolyte
losses. The nurse should assess vital signs, hydration, stool characteristics, abdominal
symptoms, intake and output, and relevant exposures. The other options are unrelated to the
immediate problem.**
Question 10: Which patient with diarrhea requires the most immediate nursing attention?
A) A patient with one loose stool and no other symptoms
B) A patient who reports mild abdominal cramping
C) A patient with frequent watery stools, weakness, dizziness, and decreased urine output
D) A patient who reports one softer stool after eating
Rationale: The correct answer is C because weakness, dizziness, and decreased urine output can
indicate significant fluid loss and possible dehydration. Options A, B, and D may require
assessment but do not demonstrate the same degree of immediate concern.**
Question 11: A nurse is caring for a patient with suspected infectious diarrhea. Which action is
most appropriate?
A) Share equipment between patients without cleaning it
B) Encourage unnecessary contact with other patients
NU 136 Exam 2 ACTUAL EXAM [ QUESTION 1- 200] AND
ANSWERS UPDATED 2026/2027| 100% VERIFIED|DETAILED
RATIONALES –PASS GUARANTEED A+ GRADED |INSTANT
DOWNLOAD
Introduction:
**NU 136 Exam 2 Updated Version provides an extensive original practice set designed to
strengthen clinical reasoning across gastrointestinal and urinary elimination concepts. The
questions emphasize assessment, normal and abnormal findings, bowel and urinary elimination,
constipation, diarrhea, urinary diversion, and nursing interventions. Rather than functioning as
a brain dump, this material uses patient scenarios that require prioritization, interpretation of
findings, application of nursing principles, and selection of safe interventions. The practice
questions are intended to help learners connect foundational anatomy and physiology with
practical nursing decision-making. Reviewing the rationales after each question can help
identify knowledge gaps, distinguish similar clinical conditions, and reinforce why particular
interventions are appropriate. Candidates should use this set alongside their course objectives,
lecture materials, instructor guidance, and assigned textbook resources because institutional NU
136 Exam 2 blueprints can vary. The questions below are original educational practice material
and are not reproduced from a confidential or proprietary examination. Consistent practice with
scenario-based questions can improve clinical judgment, test-taking confidence, and readiness
for course examinations.**
Core Domains Covered:
1. Gastrointestinal Assessment: Systematic history taking, abdominal inspection, auscultation,
percussion, palpation, and interpretation of relevant findings.
2. Bowel Elimination: Normal bowel patterns, factors affecting elimination, nursing assessment,
interventions, and patient education.
3. Constipation: Causes, risk factors, assessment findings, prevention, treatment principles, and
recognition of complications.
4. Diarrhea: Assessment, fluid and electrolyte concerns, infection-control considerations,
complications, and nursing management.
5. Urinary Elimination: Normal urinary function, assessment of urinary patterns, retention,
incontinence, and factors affecting elimination.
6. Urinary Diversion: Types of urinary diversions, expected findings, stoma assessment,
appliance care, and patient education.
7. Clinical Prioritization and Safety: Recognition of urgent findings, appropriate nursing
interventions, delegation, monitoring, and patient-centered education.
,Page |2
Questions
Question 1: A nurse is preparing to perform an abdominal assessment on a patient who reports
new abdominal discomfort. Which sequence should the nurse use?
A) Palpation, percussion, auscultation, inspection
B) Inspection, auscultation, percussion, palpation
C) Auscultation, palpation, inspection, percussion
D) Percussion, palpation, auscultation, inspection
Rationale: The correct answer is B because abdominal assessment follows the sequence of
inspection, auscultation, percussion, and palpation. Auscultation is performed before percussion
and palpation because manipulating the abdomen can alter bowel sounds. Option A is incorrect
because palpation should not precede auscultation. Option C is incorrect because palpation
should not be performed before the other assessment techniques. Option D is incorrect because
inspection and auscultation should occur before percussion and palpation.**
Question 2: During an abdominal assessment, which finding should the nurse recognize as
requiring further evaluation?
A) Symmetrical abdomen
B) Soft abdomen without tenderness
C) Board-like abdominal rigidity
D) Active bowel sounds
Rationale: The correct answer is C because marked rigidity can indicate significant intra-
abdominal pathology and requires prompt evaluation. Options A, B, and D can be normal
findings depending on the clinical context. A symmetrical abdomen is generally expected, a soft
nontender abdomen is reassuring, and active bowel sounds can occur normally.**
Question 3: A patient reports having bowel movements every other day without straining,
discomfort, or hard stools. Which interpretation is most appropriate?
A) The patient has chronic constipation
B) The patient has impaired bowel elimination
C) The frequency may represent the patient's normal bowel pattern
D) The patient requires a daily laxative
Rationale: The correct answer is C because normal bowel frequency varies among individuals.
Constipation is better identified by symptoms such as hard stools, difficulty passing stool,
straining, or a significant change from the patient's established pattern. Options A and B
incorrectly assume abnormality based solely on frequency. Option D is inappropriate because
routine laxative use is not indicated solely because a patient does not have a daily bowel
movement.**
Question 4: Which patient has the greatest risk for constipation?
,Page |3
A) A patient who walks regularly and drinks adequate fluids
B) A patient consuming a fiber-rich diet
C) A patient receiving opioids with limited mobility
D) A patient with regular physical activity and adequate hydration
Rationale: The correct answer is C because opioids decrease gastrointestinal motility, while
immobility can further contribute to constipation. Options A and D describe factors that
generally support normal bowel function. Option B describes a dietary factor that can help
prevent constipation when adequate fluid intake is maintained.**
Question 5: A postoperative patient receiving opioid analgesics has not had a bowel movement
and reports abdominal fullness. Which intervention should the nurse consider first after assessing
the patient?
A) Restrict oral fluids
B) Encourage prolonged bed rest
C) Promote mobility and adequate fluid intake when not contraindicated
D) Administer an antidiarrheal medication
Rationale: The correct answer is C because mobility and adequate hydration support
gastrointestinal motility and stool passage. Option A can worsen constipation. Option B further
reduces gastrointestinal stimulation. Option D is inappropriate because an antidiarrheal would
worsen constipation.**
Question 6: Which assessment finding most strongly suggests constipation rather than normal
variation?
A) A bowel movement every two days without symptoms
B) Stool passed easily
C) Hard, dry stools accompanied by straining
D) A consistent bowel pattern that is comfortable for the patient
Rationale: The correct answer is C because hard, dry stools and straining are characteristic
features of constipation. Frequency alone does not establish constipation. Options A and D may
represent normal individual patterns, while B describes uncomplicated elimination.**
Question 7: A nurse teaches a patient how dietary fiber supports bowel elimination. Which
explanation is most accurate?
A) Fiber completely stops intestinal movement
B) Fiber eliminates the need for fluid intake
C) Fiber increases stool bulk and can support regular bowel function
D) Fiber should always be avoided when constipation occurs
Rationale: The correct answer is C because dietary fiber increases stool bulk and can promote
regular bowel function. Adequate fluid intake is also important. Option A is incorrect because
, Page |4
fiber does not stop intestinal movement. Option B is incorrect because fiber does not replace
hydration. Option D is incorrect because fiber is commonly used as part of constipation
prevention and management when appropriate.**
Question 8: A patient with constipation asks why increased activity may help bowel elimination.
Which response is best?
A) “Activity prevents all gastrointestinal disorders.”
B) “Activity immediately removes impacted stool.”
C) “Physical activity can stimulate gastrointestinal motility.”
D) “Activity replaces the need for adequate hydration.”
Rationale: The correct answer is C because physical movement can promote gastrointestinal
motility. Option A is too absolute. Option B incorrectly promises immediate resolution of
constipation. Option D is incorrect because activity does not replace appropriate fluid intake.**
Question 9: A patient reports several episodes of watery stool during the past day. Which
assessment is most important initially?
A) Hair texture
B) Visual acuity
C) Hydration status and associated symptoms
D) Nail length
Rationale: The correct answer is C because diarrhea can cause significant fluid and electrolyte
losses. The nurse should assess vital signs, hydration, stool characteristics, abdominal
symptoms, intake and output, and relevant exposures. The other options are unrelated to the
immediate problem.**
Question 10: Which patient with diarrhea requires the most immediate nursing attention?
A) A patient with one loose stool and no other symptoms
B) A patient who reports mild abdominal cramping
C) A patient with frequent watery stools, weakness, dizziness, and decreased urine output
D) A patient who reports one softer stool after eating
Rationale: The correct answer is C because weakness, dizziness, and decreased urine output can
indicate significant fluid loss and possible dehydration. Options A, B, and D may require
assessment but do not demonstrate the same degree of immediate concern.**
Question 11: A nurse is caring for a patient with suspected infectious diarrhea. Which action is
most appropriate?
A) Share equipment between patients without cleaning it
B) Encourage unnecessary contact with other patients
