ATI RN
Respiratory System Practice Questions Questions
Question 1 of 4
A client admitted for pneumonia has been tachypneic for several days. When the nurse starts an IV to give fluids the client questions this action saying " have been drinking tons of water. How am I dehydrated?" What response by the nurse is best?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because tachypnea, or rapid breathing, can lead to excessive loss of fluids through respiration, causing dehydration. This explanation educates the client on the physiological reason behind their dehydration. Choice B is incorrect as not all pneumonia patients are dehydrated. Choice C is incorrect as it does not address the dehydration concern. Choice D is incorrect as it does not provide a clear explanation of the link between tachypnea and dehydration.
Question 2 of 4
You are supervising an RN who was pulled from the medical-surgical floor to the emergency department (ED). The nurse is providing care for a client admitted with anterior epistaxis (nosebleed). Which of these directions will you clearly provide to the RN? (Choose all that apply.)
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer includes B, C, and D. Applying direct pressure (B), maintaining universal precautions (C), and applying ice or cool compresses (D) are appropriate interventions for managing epistaxis. Positioning the client supine and turned on their side (A) is incorrect as it could lead to aspiration of blood.
Question 3 of 4
The patient is apprehensive about undergoing bronchoscopy. He cannot imagine having anything inserted into his throat. What is the best response?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The best response to the patient's apprehension about undergoing bronchoscopy is option C. This response acknowledges the patient's feelings and addresses the underlying cause of anxiety by offering reassurance and an opportunity for the physician to provide more information. Option A is incorrect because simply stating the frequency of the procedure being performed does not address the patient's concerns. Option B is irrelevant as the physician's experience from three years ago does not alleviate the current patient's fears. Option D oversimplifies the procedure and dismisses the patient's emotional distress. In an educational context, it is crucial to teach healthcare professionals the importance of patient-centered care. Acknowledging and addressing patient concerns, providing information, and ensuring patient comfort are essential aspects of delivering quality healthcare. Understanding and empathizing with patients' fears can lead to better outcomes and patient satisfaction.
Question 4 of 4
A pulmonary embolus is suspected in a patient with a deep vein thrombosis who develops hemoptysis, tachycardia, and chest pain. Diagnostic testing is scheduled. Which test should the nurse plan to teach the patient about?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: In this scenario, the correct test that the nurse should plan to teach the patient about is option B) Spiral (helical) CT scan. This diagnostic test is the preferred method for diagnosing a pulmonary embolism due to its high sensitivity and specificity. A CT scan can visualize blood flow in the lungs and detect any blockages caused by a pulmonary embolus. Option A) Chest x-rays may show indirect signs of a pulmonary embolism, but they are not as sensitive or specific as a CT scan in diagnosing this condition. Option C) Taking the patient's pulse and blood pressure is important for assessing their vital signs, but it will not provide diagnostic information about a pulmonary embolism. Option D) Ventilation-perfusion lung scan is another imaging test used to diagnose a pulmonary embolism, but it is less commonly used compared to a CT scan due to limitations in sensitivity and specificity. In an educational context, it is crucial for nurses to understand the rationale behind selecting the most appropriate diagnostic test for a suspected condition. Teaching patients about the importance of diagnostic tests, their procedures, and possible outcomes empowers them to be active participants in their healthcare decisions and promotes better understanding and adherence to the treatment plan.