Certified Neuroscience Registered Nurse (CNRN) Practice Exam

In which situation is ileostomy surgery typically performed?

1. Chronic constipation

2. Proctocolectomy

3. Gastric bypass

4. Cholecystectomy

The correct answer is: Proctocolectomy

Ileostomy surgery is typically performed following a proctocolectomy, which is the surgical removal of the rectum and colon. This procedure is often indicated for conditions such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease, where the removal of the affected parts of the intestine is necessary to manage disease symptoms, prevent complications, or in some cases, to treat cancer. In an ileostomy, the end of the small intestine (ileum) is brought out through the abdominal wall to form an opening (stoma) for the purpose of waste elimination. This procedure is crucial when the large intestine cannot function properly due to the removal of the colon and rectum, making ileostomy the appropriate choice in the context of a proctocolectomy. The other options provided do not typically involve ileostomy surgery. Chronic constipation could be managed in other ways without necessitating an ileostomy. Gastric bypass focuses on weight loss and involves alterations to the stomach and small intestine without the need for an ileostomy. Cholecystectomy, the removal of the gallbladder, also does not involve changes that would require an ileostomy. Thus, proctocolectomy is the definitive context for ile