66. Which choice best describes the pain associated with a duodenal ulcer?
. Dull, epigastric pain that occurs one-half hour after eating.
. Sharp, intermittent pain in the left upper quadrant.
. Gnawing, epigastric pain 1 to 3 hours after eating.
. Continuous, dull pain in the right lower quadrant.
Test-Taking Tip
Time and location are important.
Content Area: Adult Health, Gastrointestinal; Integrated Process: Nursing Process, Assessment; Cognitive Level: Comprehension; Client Need/Subneed: Physiological Integrity/Physiological Adaptation/Pathophysiology
.
Answer 1 is incorrect because the timing is too soon, although the symptom is appropriate. Answer 2 is incorrect because the characteristics of the pain are not consistent with an ulcer, but more like those associated with pancreatitis. Answer 3 is correct because the pain is described as aching, burning, cramp-like, and gnawing, occurring at some time after eating, depending on where the ulcer is located. Answer 4 is incorrect because the characteristics and the location are not consistent with ulcer pain.