ATI RN
Physical Assessment Practice Questions Questions
Question 1 of 5
A 15-year-old high school sophomore comes to the clinic for evaluation of a 3-week history of sneezing; itchy, watery eyes; clear nasal discharge; ear pain; and nonproductive cough. Which is the most likely pathologic process?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The symptoms described, such as sneezing, itchy watery eyes, clear nasal discharge, ear pain, and nonproductive cough, are classic signs of allergic rhinitis, commonly known as seasonal allergies. Allergic rhinitis is an inflammatory response triggered by allergens in the environment such as pollen, dust mites, or pet dander. The immune system overreacts to these allergens, releasing histamine and other chemicals that cause the symptoms experienced by the patient. In this case, the most likely pathologic process underlying the symptoms is an allergic response rather than infection, inflammation, or vascular issues.
Question 2 of 5
When you enter your patient's examination room, his wife is waiting there with him. Which of the following is most appropriate?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The most appropriate action in this situation is to ask the patient if it's okay to carry out the visit with both people in the room. This shows respect for the patient's autonomy and privacy. Some patients may feel more comfortable discussing personal information without a family member present, while others may prefer having their spouse or family member involved in the conversation. By asking for the patient's preference, you are ensuring that they have the opportunity to control who is present during the consultation and are upholding their right to confidentiality.
Question 3 of 5
A 55-year-old bookkeeper comes to your office for a routine visit. You note that on a previous visit for treatment of contact dermatitis, her blood pressure was elevated. She does not have prior elevated readings and her family history is negative for hypertension. You measure her blood pressure in your office today. Which of the following factors can result in a false high reading?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: A tightly fitted blood pressure cuff can result in a false high reading by compressing the underlying artery too much, causing an inaccurate measurement. It is important to ensure that the blood pressure cuff is appropriately sized for the patient's arm to obtain an accurate reading. The other factors listed, such as the patient being seated quietly, measuring on a bare arm, and supporting the patient's arm at the correct level, all contribute to obtaining an accurate measurement of blood pressure.
Question 4 of 5
A 50-year-old body builder is upset by a letter of denial from his life insurance company. He is very lean but has gained 2 pounds over the past 6 months. You personally performed his health assessment and found no problems whatsoever. He says he is classified as "high risk" because of obesity. What should you do next?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Since the life insurance company is classifying the body builder as "high risk" due to obesity, it is important to assess whether his weight gain is primarily fat accumulation around the waist. Measuring his waist circumference can provide valuable information about the distribution of body fat. Abdominal obesity, indicated by an increased waist measurement, is a significant risk factor for health issues such as heart disease, diabetes, and metabolic syndrome. By measuring his waist, you can determine if his weight gain is indeed a cause for concern in terms of health risks, rather than just considering the overall weight gain. This information can help you provide more targeted advice on how to address any potential health concerns related to the weight gain.
Question 5 of 5
A 35-year-old archaeologist comes to your office (located in Phoenix, Arizona) for a regular skin check-up. She has just returned from her annual dig site in Greece. She has fair skin and reddish-blonde hair. She has a family history of melanoma. She has many freckles scattered across her skin. From this description, which of the following is not a risk factor for melanoma in this patient?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: In the given scenario, being a 35-year-old archaeologist with fair skin, a family history of melanoma, and many freckles scattered across her skin are all risk factors for melanoma. Age (choice A) is a relevant risk factor as melanoma incidence increases with age. Actinic lentigines (choice C), also known as sunspots, are precancerous skin lesions that can increase the risk of developing melanoma. Heavy sun exposure (choice D) is a significant risk factor as cumulative sun exposure over time can contribute to the development of melanoma.