2026/2027 Grand canyon university
Q1. Which finding is most characteristic of gastroesophageal reflux
disease (GERD)?
A. Heartburn and regurgitation
B. Right lower-quadrant pain
C. Clay-colored stools
D. Severe flank pain
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: GERD occurs when gastric contents reflux into the esophagus,
commonly producing heartburn and regurgitation.
Q2. Which lifestyle modification is appropriate for a client with
GERD?
A. Lie down immediately after eating.
B. Eat large meals before bedtime.
C. Avoid meals close to bedtime.
D. Increase intake of foods known to trigger symptoms.
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Remaining upright after meals and avoiding food shortly before
bedtime can reduce reflux.
Q3. Which client statement indicates a need for further teaching
about GERD?
A. "I will avoid foods that trigger my symptoms."
B. "I can elevate the head of my bed if symptoms occur at night."
C. "I should lie flat immediately after meals."
D. "I will follow the prescribed medication regimen."
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Lying flat soon after eating can promote gastric reflux.
**Q4. A hiatal hernia occurs when:
A. The stomach protrudes through the diaphragm into the thoracic cavity.
B. The intestine twists around itself.
C. The appendix becomes inflamed.
D. The pancreas becomes infected.
, Correct Answer: A
Rationale: A hiatal hernia occurs when part of the stomach moves through
the esophageal opening of the diaphragm.
**Q5. Which finding is commonly associated with a hiatal hernia?
A. Heartburn and regurgitation
B. Hematuria
C. Severe calf pain
D. Productive cough
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: A hiatal hernia can worsen gastroesophageal reflux and produce
heartburn, regurgitation, and chest or epigastric discomfort.
**Q6. Which condition is characterized by a break in the mucosal lining of the
stomach or duodenum?
A. Peptic ulcer disease
B. Irritable bowel syndrome
C. Diverticulosis
D. Appendicitis
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Peptic ulcer disease involves ulceration of the gastric or
duodenal mucosa.
**Q7. Which organism is strongly associated with peptic ulcer disease?
A. Helicobacter pylori
B. Escherichia coli only
C. Candida albicans only
D. Clostridium tetani
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: H. pylori infection is a major cause of peptic ulcer disease.
**Q8. Which symptom is commonly associated with a duodenal ulcer?
A. Epigastric pain that may improve after eating
B. Severe right lower-quadrant pain
C. Painless hematuria
D. Productive cough