Question

The nurse is planning care for a client in the early stages of ulcerative colitis. The nurse understands that which part of the colon is initially affected by ulcerative colitis?

1) Transverse colon
2) Rectosigmoid area
3) Duodenum
4) Ileocecal junction

Answer 1

Ulcerative colitis initially affects the Rectosigmoid area of the colon. Symptoms include lower abdominal pain and bloody diarrhea.

Step-by-step explanation:

The initial part of the colon that is affected by ulcerative colitis is the Rectosigmoid area. Ulcerative colitis mainly affects the colon and rectum, unlike Crohn's disease which can affect any part of the GI tract. The primary symptoms of ulcerative colitis include lower abdominal pain and bloody diarrhea.

Lifestyle changes and medications are available to manage symptoms and prolong remission. In severe cases, surgical removal of the colon and rectum may be necessary. It is important for patients with ulcerative colitis to undergo frequent screenings for colon cancer due to an increased risk.