ATI RN
test bank foundations of nursing Questions
Question 1 of 5
A patient on the oncology unit is receiving carmustine, a chemotherapy agent, and the nurse is aware that a significant side effect of this medication is thrombocytopenia. Which symptom should the nurse assess for in patients at risk for thrombocytopenia?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Epistaxis (nose bleed). Thrombocytopenia is a condition characterized by a low platelet count, leading to impaired blood clotting and an increased risk of bleeding. Epistaxis is a common symptom of thrombocytopenia due to the lack of platelets to aid in clot formation. Assessing for epistaxis in patients receiving carmustine is crucial to monitor and manage potential bleeding complications.
Choices A, B, and D are incorrect as they are not directly associated with thrombocytopenia.
Question 2 of 5
The school nurse is teaching a nutrition class in the local high school. One student states that he has heard that certain foods can increase the incidence of cancer. The nurse responds, Research has shown that certain foods indeed appear to increase the risk of cancer. Which of the following menu selections would be the best choice for potentially reducing the risks of cancer?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Baked apricot chicken and steamed broccoli. This menu selection is the best choice for potentially reducing the risks of cancer due to several reasons. Baked apricot chicken is a lean protein source without the harmful effects of excessive red or processed meats, which are linked to an increased cancer risk. Apricots are rich in antioxidants like Vitamin C and beta-carotene, which can help protect cells from damage that may lead to cancer. Broccoli is a cruciferous vegetable containing compounds like sulforaphane that have anti-cancer properties. Steaming broccoli helps retain its nutrients better compared to frying or overcooking.
Therefore, this menu selection is a balanced, nutritious choice that includes cancer-fighting ingredients and avoids potentially harmful foods like red meats or fried items.
Question 3 of 5
A patient has presented for her annual mammogram. The patient voices concerns related to exposure to radiation. What should the nurse teach the patient about a mammogram?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale:
Step 1: Mammograms use low-dose X-rays to create images of the breast tissue.
Step 2: The radiation exposure in a mammogram is minimal and considered safe.
Step 3:
Choice A is correct as it states that mammograms do not use radiation, which is accurate.
Step 4: Other choices are incorrect because B wrongly implies that annual mammograms are safe due to low radiation levels, C is incorrect as radiation effects can accumulate over time, and D is incorrect as the amount of radiation in a mammogram is much lower than an hour of sunlight.
Question 4 of 5
A 35-year-old mother of three young children has been diagnosed with stage II breast cancer. After discussing treatment options with her physician, the woman goes home to talk to her husband, later calling the nurse for clarification of some points. The patient tells the nurse that the physician has recommended breast conservation surgery followed by radiation. The patients husband has done some online research and is asking why his wife does not have a modified radical mastectomy to be sure all the cancer is gone. What would be the nurses best response?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: According to current guidelines, breast conservation combined with radiation is as effective as a modified radical mastectomy.
1. Breast conservation surgery followed by radiation is a standard treatment option for early-stage breast cancer.
2. Studies have shown that breast conservation surgery combined with radiation therapy is equally effective in terms of long-term survival rates compared to mastectomy.
3. Current guidelines recommend considering breast conservation surgery as a viable option for patients with early-stage breast cancer.
4. Modified radical mastectomy is not necessarily needed to ensure complete removal of cancer, as breast conservation surgery followed by radiation can achieve the same goal.
5.
Therefore, the nurse should reassure the patient's husband that the recommended treatment plan is based on current guidelines and is as effective as a modified radical mastectomy.
Question 5 of 5
A patient with Parkinsons disease is experiencing episodes of constipation that are becoming increasingly frequent and severe. The patient states that he has been achieving relief for the past few weeks by using OTC laxatives. How should the nurse respond?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Lets explore other options, because laxatives can have side effects and create dependency. The rationale for this is that while laxatives provide temporary relief for constipation, using them long-term can lead to dependency, electrolyte imbalances, and other side effects. The nurse should address the root cause of constipation and explore alternative strategies such as dietary changes, increased fluid intake, exercise, and bowel training.
Choices A and B focus on supportive measures rather than addressing the issue of potential dependency on laxatives.
Choice D suggests herbal remedies without considering the individual's specific condition and medical history.