Cardiovascular System Exam -Nurselytic

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Excitability. Excitability refers to the ability of cardiac cells to respond to an impulse by generating an action potential and contracting. This is the fundamental property that allows the heart to beat. Contractility (
B) is the ability of cardiac muscle to contract once stimulated, but it does not specifically refer to the response to an impulse. Rhythmicity (
C) is the ability of cardiac cells to generate spontaneous electrical impulses, not directly related to responding to an impulse. Conductivity (
D) is the ability of cardiac cells to transmit electrical impulses, not specifically related to the response of cells contracting.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Pulmonary embolism. Pulmonary embolism occurs when a blood clot blocks one of the pulmonary arteries, leading to symptoms like chest pain and shortness of breath. This condition is a medical emergency as it can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.

B: Pneumothorax is the collapse of the lung due to air leaking into the chest cavity, not caused by a blood clot in the pulmonary arteries.

C: Pulmonary edema is the accumulation of fluid in the lungs, causing breathing difficulties, but it is not due to a blood clot in the pulmonary arteries.

D: Pulmonary hypertension is high blood pressure in the arteries of the lungs, not caused by a blockage from a blood clot.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: During ventricular systole, the atrioventricular valves (AV valves) close to prevent blood from flowing back into the atria. This allows the ventricles to contract and pump blood out of the heart. During ventricular diastole, the AV valves open to allow blood to flow from the atria into the ventricles. The other choices are incorrect because semilunar valves (choice
A) close to prevent blood from flowing back into the ventricles during ventricular diastole, and the mitral valve (choice
C) and tricuspid valve (choice
D) are specific types of AV valves.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Hold the digoxin and notify the healthcare provider. Digoxin toxicity is more likely to occur in patients with low potassium levels. With a potassium level of 2.8 mEq/L, the client is at risk for digoxin toxicity. Holding the digoxin and notifying the healthcare provider is the priority action to prevent potential harm to the client.

B: Increasing the dose of digoxin would exacerbate the risk of digoxin toxicity in a client with low potassium levels.
C: Continuing the current dose of digoxin without addressing the low potassium level could lead to digoxin toxicity.
D: Administering potassium supplements alone may not be sufficient to address the potential digoxin toxicity. Holding the digoxin is the priority action.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis is the condition where arteries supplying blood to the heart become hardened and narrowed due to plaque buildup, leading to decreased blood flow and potential heart issues. Aneurysm (
B) is the weakening and bulging of an artery wall, not related to plaque buildup. Arrhythmia (
C) is an irregular heartbeat, not directly related to arterial blockages. Peripheral artery disease (
D) involves narrowing of arteries in the limbs, not specifically related to the heart. Thus, Atherosclerosis is the most fitting choice for the given condition.