ATI RN
Physical Assessment Practice Questions Questions
Question 1 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 2 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.
Question 3 of 5
Mrs. Hill is a 28-year-old African-American with a history of SLE (systemic lupus erythematosus). She has noticed a raised, dark red rash on her legs. When you press on the rash, it doesn't blanch. What would you tell her regarding her rash?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The raised, dark red rash that does not blanch when pressed on, typically known as erythema nodosum, is a common skin manifestation of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Given Mrs. Hill's history of SLE, it is likely that her rash is related to her autoimmune condition rather than an exposure to a chemical or an allergic reaction. It is important for her to discuss this new symptom with her healthcare provider to ensure appropriate management and monitoring of her lupus.
Question 4 of 5
A 73-year-old nurse comes to your office for evaluation of new onset of tremors. She is not on any medications and does not take herbs or supplements. She has no chronic medical conditions. She does not smoke or drink alcohol. She walks into the examination room with slow movements and shuffling steps. She has decreased facial mobility and a blunt expression, without any changes in hair distribution on her face. Based on this description, what is the most likely reason for the patient's symptoms?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The patient's presentation of new onset tremors, slow movements with shuffling steps (bradykinesia), decreased facial mobility, and blunt expression are characteristic features of Parkinson's disease. Parkinson's disease is a neurodegenerative disorder that affects movement, typically presenting with tremors, rigidity, and bradykinesia. The presence of these symptoms in this patient, along with the absence of any other medical conditions or medication use, points toward a diagnosis of Parkinson's disease. Other conditions like Cushing's syndrome, nephrotic syndrome, and myxedema are unlikely based on the patient's clinical presentation.
Question 5 of 5
Very sensitive methods for detecting hearing loss include which of the following?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Audiometric testing is a very sensitive method for detecting hearing loss. It involves a series of tests that measure a person's ability to hear sounds at various frequencies and volumes. These tests can detect even subtle changes in hearing ability and provide detailed information on the type and degree of hearing loss. The whisper test and finger rub test are basic screening tests and are not as sensitive or comprehensive as audiometric testing. The tuning fork test is also used in evaluating hearing loss, but it is not as accurate or sensitive as audiometric testing. Overall, audiometric testing is considered the gold standard for diagnosing hearing loss due to its high sensitivity and ability to provide detailed information on the individual's hearing capabilities.