ATI RN
ATI Detailed Answer Key Medical Surgical Questions
Question 1 of 5
A client has periodic outbreaks of cold sores long after the initial infection of herpes simplex virus. Why does this occur?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because the herpes simplex virus can become dormant in nerve cells and reactivate periodically, leading to recurrent outbreaks.
Question 2 of 5
A patient is scheduled for a hemorrhoidectomy at an ambulatory day-surgery center. An advantage of performing surgery at an ambulatory center is a decreased need for
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Ambulatory centers often streamline processes, reducing the need for extensive laboratory tests and perioperative medications.
Question 3 of 5
Which indicates a person selected on the client’s behalf to make medical decisions when the client cannot?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: A durable power of attorney for healthcare designates a proxy decision-maker, ensuring the client's wishes are honored.
Question 4 of 5
A nurse is observing the closed chest drainage system of a client who is 24 hr post thoracotomy. The nurse notes slow, steady bubbling in the suction control chamber. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Check the tubing connections for leaks. 1. Slow, steady bubbling in the suction control chamber indicates an air leak in the system. 2. Checking the tubing connections for leaks is the appropriate action to identify and fix the issue. 3. This helps maintain the integrity of the closed chest drainage system and prevent complications. Other choices are incorrect: B: Checking the suction control outlet on the wall is not necessary as the issue is likely within the tubing system. C: Clamping the chest tube could lead to tension pneumothorax and is not recommended unless ordered by a physician. D: Continuing to monitor the client's respiratory status does not address the underlying problem of the air leak.
Question 5 of 5
A nurse in an emergency room is caring for a client who sustained partial-thickness burns to both lower legs, chest, face, and both forearms. Which of the following is the priority action the nurse should take?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Inspect the mouth for signs of inhalation injuries. This is the priority action because inhalation injuries can be life-threatening due to airway compromise. The nurse should assess for soot in the mouth, facial burns, hoarseness, and difficulty breathing. This allows for prompt intervention if respiratory distress is present. A: Inserting an indwelling urinary catheter is not the priority as it does not address the immediate life-threatening issue. C: Administering pain medication is important but not the priority over assessing for inhalation injuries which could lead to respiratory distress. D: Drawing blood for a CBC count is not the priority as it does not address the immediate threat to the client's airway.