ATI RN
ATI Detailed Answer Key Medical Surgical Questions
Question 1 of 5
While caring for a client with extensive partial and full-thickness burns of the head, neck, and chest, which risk should the nurse prioritize for assessment and intervention?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Airway obstruction. This should be prioritized because burns to the head, neck, and chest can lead to swelling and inflammation, potentially compromising the airway. Maintaining a clear airway is crucial for oxygenation and ventilation. If the airway becomes obstructed, it can quickly lead to respiratory distress or failure. Assessing for signs of airway compromise and intervening promptly is essential to prevent serious complications. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because while infection, fluid imbalance, and paralytic ileus are also important considerations in burn care, they are not as immediately life-threatening as airway obstruction in this case. Infection can be managed with appropriate wound care, fluid imbalance can be addressed with fluid resuscitation, and paralytic ileus can be treated with medications and bowel management strategies.
Question 2 of 5
A nurse is observing the closed chest drainage system of a client who is 24 hr post thoracotomy. The nurse notes slow, steady bubbling in the suction control chamber. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Check the tubing connections for leaks. 1. Slow, steady bubbling in the suction control chamber indicates an air leak in the system. 2. Checking the tubing connections for leaks is the appropriate action to identify and fix the issue. 3. This helps maintain the integrity of the closed chest drainage system and prevent complications. Other choices are incorrect: B: Checking the suction control outlet on the wall is not necessary as the issue is likely within the tubing system. C: Clamping the chest tube could lead to tension pneumothorax and is not recommended unless ordered by a physician. D: Continuing to monitor the client's respiratory status does not address the underlying problem of the air leak.
Question 3 of 5
A client is in the immediate postoperative period following a partial laryngectomy. Which of the following parameters should the nurse assess first?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Airway patency. Assessing airway patency is the priority in the immediate postoperative period following a laryngectomy to ensure the client's ability to breathe. If the airway is compromised, it can lead to life-threatening complications. Pain severity (A), wound drainage (B), and tissue integrity (C) are important assessments but are secondary to ensuring the client's airway is clear and functioning properly. Prioritizing airway patency allows for prompt intervention if any issues arise, ensuring the client's safety and optimal recovery.
Question 4 of 5
A client with a tracheostomy is being cared for by a nurse. The client's partner has been taught to perform suctioning. Which of the following actions by the partner should indicate to the nurse a readiness for the client's discharge?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Performing the procedure independently. This indicates readiness for discharge as it demonstrates the partner's ability to safely and effectively perform suctioning without direct supervision. Attending a class (A) and asking relevant questions (D) are important but do not necessarily indicate competence in performing the procedure. Verbally explaining the steps (B) shows understanding but does not confirm practical skill.
Question 5 of 5
A client developed fat embolism syndrome (FES) following a fracture. Which of the following laboratory findings should the nurse expect?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Decreased serum calcium level. In fat embolism syndrome (FES), fat globules enter the bloodstream and can cause hypocalcemia due to the formation of calcium soaps. This can lead to symptoms such as confusion and tetany. The other choices are incorrect because in FES, there is no direct impact on serum lipids or ESR. Platelet count may be normal or decreased due to the consumption of platelets in the process.