ATI RN
ATI Detailed Answer Key Medical Surgical Questions
Question 1 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 2 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 3 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.
Question 4 of 5
A client is unconscious with a breathing pattern characterized by alternating periods of hyperventilation and apnea. The nurse should document that the client has which of the following respiratory alterations?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Cheyne-Stokes respirations. This breathing pattern is characterized by alternating periods of deep, rapid breathing (hyperventilation) followed by periods of apnea. This pattern is often seen in clients with neurological or cardiac conditions. Kussmaul respirations (A) are deep and rapid breathing associated with metabolic acidosis. Apneustic respirations (B) are characterized by prolonged inhalation and short, insufficient exhalation. Stridor (D) is a high-pitched, noisy breathing sound caused by obstructed air flow in the upper airway, not associated with the described breathing pattern.
Question 5 of 5
A nurse is teaching a client who is obese and has obstructive sleep apnea how to decrease the number of nightly apneic episodes. Which of the following client statements indicates an understanding of the teaching?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because losing weight can help reduce the severity and frequency of obstructive sleep apnea. Excess weight can lead to fat deposits around the upper airway, causing obstruction during sleep. By losing weight, the airway may become less obstructed, reducing apneic episodes. Choice A is incorrect because sleeping on the back can actually worsen sleep apnea by causing the tongue and soft tissues to block the airway. Choice B is incorrect because sleeping pills can relax the muscles in the airway, making it more likely for an individual with sleep apnea to experience episodes of apnea. Choice C is incorrect because while a humidifier can alleviate some symptoms like dryness, it does not directly address the underlying cause of obstructive sleep apnea related to obesity.