ATI RN
Cardiovascular Test Bank Questions Questions
Question 1 of 5
A client comes to the emergency department with a dissecting aortic aneurysm. The client is at greatest risk for:
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: cardiogenic shock. Dissecting aortic aneurysm can lead to decreased cardiac output due to the disruption of normal blood flow in the aorta. This can result in heart failure and subsequent cardiogenic shock. Septic shock (choice A) is caused by severe infection, anaphylactic shock (choice B) is triggered by severe allergic reactions, and hypovolemic shock (choice D) is due to a significant loss of blood or fluids. However, in the case of a dissecting aortic aneurysm, the primary concern is the impact on cardiac function, making cardiogenic shock the greatest risk for the client.
Question 2 of 5
A client's angiogram demonstrates the final stage of atherosclerosis. The nurse concludes that this client's pathophysiology includes which of the following elements?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: The presence of atheromas. Atheromas are the characteristic plaques formed in the arteries during the final stage of atherosclerosis. These plaques consist of fat, cholesterol, calcium, and other substances. Choice B is not specific to the final stage of atherosclerosis but rather a general characteristic of the condition. Choice C, lipoprotein accumulation in the intima, is a contributing factor to atherosclerosis but not specific to the final stage. Choice D, inflammation of the arterial wall, is a feature seen throughout the progression of atherosclerosis, not just in the final stage. Thus, the presence of atheromas best represents the final stage of atherosclerosis.
Question 3 of 5
A 6-year-old child has been diagnosed with coarctation of the aorta. Lately, he has been complaining when he comes in from recess. The health nurse should question the child about which of the following?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Weakness and pain in legs. Coarctation of the aorta can lead to decreased blood flow to the lower extremities, causing symptoms like leg pain and weakness. The health nurse should question the child about this as it could be indicative of reduced blood flow from the aorta. Blurred vision (B) is not typically associated with coarctation of the aorta. Increased respiratory rate (C) is more commonly seen in conditions affecting the lungs or airways, not specifically related to coarctation of the aorta. Bruises on shins (D) are not directly related to the symptoms of coarctation of the aorta and do not provide relevant information in this context.
Question 4 of 5
A patient is admitted with and ST segment myocardial infarction. The patient's wife overhears the physician talking about this and asks you, the nurse, what the physician means by this type of heart attack. The nurse's BEST response would include
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because it accurately describes an ST segment myocardial infarction as a rather large heart attack that causes death of the heart muscle through all three layers. This response provides a clear and concise explanation of the severity of the condition. Choice A is incorrect as it focuses on the ECG changes rather than the extent of the heart attack itself. Choice B is incorrect as it inaccurately describes a smaller MI that only affects part of the heart wall. Choice D is incorrect as it states the cardiac markers are not elevated, which is not typically seen in a severe heart attack.
Question 5 of 5
Which of the following pacemakers is usually used in an emergency and attached by the critical care nurse to the patient?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Transcutaneous pacer. In an emergency, a transcutaneous pacer is used because it can be quickly attached externally to the patient's chest, providing immediate pacing support. This type of pacer delivers electrical impulses through the skin to stimulate the heart, making it an effective temporary solution. Summary: B: Epicardial pacer is surgically placed on the heart's surface and is not typically used in emergency situations. C: Transvenous pacer is inserted through a vein and requires more time for placement, making it less suitable for emergencies. D: Permanent pacer is surgically implanted for long-term use and is not used in emergency situations.