ATI RN
Vital Signs Assessment Questions
Question 1 of 5
A 25-year-old accountant presents with intermittent lower right-sided chest pain for several days. The pain is knifelike, lasts 3-5 seconds, worsens with deep breathing, and improves when lying on the affected side.
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Pleural pain. The key features here are the sharp, knifelike pain that worsens with deep breathing, which is typical of pleuritic pain due to inflammation of the pleura. This pain pattern is distinct from pericarditis (A) which typically worsens with lying flat and improves when sitting up. Chest wall pain (B) is usually reproducible with palpation, and angina pectoris (D) is typically described as a pressure or squeezing sensation, often triggered by exertion. Therefore, based on the pain characteristics described by the patient, pleural pain is the most likely diagnosis.
Question 2 of 5
The nurse makes which adjustment in the physical environment to promote the success of an interview?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because reducing noise helps create a conducive environment for effective communication during the interview. Noise can be distracting and hinder the patient's ability to focus and share information. Turning off televisions and radios promotes a quiet and focused setting. Choice B is incorrect because reducing the distance between the interviewer and the patient to 2 feet or less may invade the patient's personal space and make them uncomfortable. Choice C is incorrect as dim lighting may not be suitable for all patients and can affect visibility and communication. Choice D is incorrect because arranging seating across a desk or table can create a barrier and may not allow for a comfortable and open conversation.
Question 3 of 5
The nurse is preparing to perform a physical assessment. Which statement is true about the physical assessment? The inspection phase:
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Takes time and reveals a surprising amount of information. During the inspection phase of a physical assessment, the nurse carefully observes the patient's appearance, behavior, and movements. This phase is crucial as it provides valuable visual information about the patient's overall health status, potential abnormalities, and clues for further assessment. By taking time and paying attention to detail during inspection, the nurse can gather significant data that can guide the rest of the assessment process. The other choices are incorrect because: A) Inspecting usually yields valuable information, C) Discomfort is not a typical characteristic of the inspection phase, and D) Inspection requires thorough observation, not just a quick glance before palpation.
Question 4 of 5
When using an otoscope to examine a patient, the nurse:
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because when using an otoscope, the nurse should direct light onto the tympanic membrane (eardrum) to visualize its condition. This helps in assessing ear health and identifying any abnormalities or infections. Choice A is incorrect as an otoscope is not used to visualize sinuses. Choice B is incorrect as it refers to examining inner ear structures which is beyond the scope of an otoscope. Choice D is incorrect as external lesions are not typically assessed using an otoscope.
Question 5 of 5
The nurse is examining a patient who is complaining of "feeling cold." Which is a mechanism of heat loss in the body?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Radiation. Heat loss through radiation occurs when the body emits infrared radiation to the surrounding environment. This is a passive process and can account for a significant amount of heat loss. Exercise (choice A) generates heat due to muscle activity, leading to increased body temperature. Metabolism (choice C) is the process by which the body converts food into energy and does not directly result in heat loss. Food digestion (choice D) also contributes to metabolic processes and energy production, rather than heat loss.