Nursing Acceleration Challenge Exam (NACE) PN-RN Practice Test

What is the most common complication associated with ulcerative colitis?

1. Fistulas

2. Anal abscess

3. Perforation

4. Strictures

The correct answer is: Perforation

The most common complication associated with ulcerative colitis is perforation. This condition affects the colon's ability to function properly, leading to inflammation and ulceration of the bowel lining. In severe cases, the debilitating inflammation can weaken the intestinal wall, increasing the risk of perforation, which is a serious condition that can result in the contents of the intestine leaking into the abdominal cavity, leading to peritonitis—a life-threatening infection. While other complications such as fistulas, anal abscesses, and strictures can occur in ulcerative colitis, they are generally less common than perforation. Fistulas are abnormal connections that can develop between the colon and other organs, while anal abscesses occur due to infections in the anal area. Strictures, or narrowing of the bowel, can develop as a result of scarring from inflammation, but again, these are not as prevalent as perforation itself in the context of ulcerative colitis complications. Understanding the significance of perforation emphasizes the need for careful management and monitoring of patients with ulcerative colitis to prevent such adverse outcomes.