ATI RN
Cardiovascular Practice Questions Questions
Question 1 of 5
A client with a myocardial infarction and cardiogenic shock is placed on an intra- aortic ballon pump (IAPB). If the device is functioning properly, the balloon inflates when the:
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Aortic valve is closed. When the IABP is functioning properly, the balloon inflates during diastole when the aortic valve is closed. This inflation helps to increase coronary perfusion and decrease afterload, improving myocardial oxygen supply and reducing workload. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because the inflation of the balloon is not directly related to the status of the tricuspid, pulmonic, or mitral valves. The key factor in timing the inflation of the balloon is the closure of the aortic valve during diastole.
Question 2 of 5
The nurse is discharging a client to home with a new diagnosis of atrial fibrillation.. The nurse explains that which of the following is the most important symptoms to report to the physician?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Irregular pulse. Atrial fibrillation is characterized by an irregular heartbeat, which can lead to serious complications like blood clots and stroke. Reporting an irregular pulse to the physician is crucial for prompt evaluation and management. Fever (B) is not typically associated with atrial fibrillation. Fatigue (C) is a common symptom but not as urgent as an irregular pulse. Hemoptysis (D) is coughing up blood and is not directly related to atrial fibrillation.
Question 3 of 5
Which of the following suggestions should the nurse include when conducting health teaching for clients with arterial insufficiency?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Step 1: Arterial insufficiency is caused by decreased blood flow to the extremities. Step 2: Avoiding long periods of sitting and standing helps improve blood circulation. Step 3: Increased mobility prevents blood pooling and promotes better tissue perfusion. Step 4: Keeping legs raised may help temporarily, but prolonged elevation can worsen arterial flow. Step 5: Decreasing ambulation worsens arterial insufficiency by reducing blood flow. Step 6: Applying moist heat can increase vasodilation, worsening the condition. Summary: Choice A is correct as it promotes circulation. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as they can worsen arterial insufficiency by impeding blood flow or increasing vasodilation.
Question 4 of 5
A 75-year-old individual is admitted with a diagnosis of left-sided heart failure and is administered Lasix 80 mg by slow IV push. Which nursing assessment indicates that the Lasix (furosemide) is NOT having the desired effect?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Oliguria. In a patient with heart failure, Lasix is given to promote diuresis and reduce fluid overload. Oliguria, or decreased urine output, indicates that the Lasix is not effectively removing excess fluid from the body. This is a crucial assessment as it may suggest worsening heart failure or possible renal insufficiency. Explanation for why other choices are incorrect: B: Decrease in blood pressure - This could be an expected effect of Lasix, as it helps reduce fluid volume, leading to decreased blood pressure. C: Absence of crackles - This indicates that there is a reduction in pulmonary congestion, which is a desired effect of Lasix. D: Polydipsia - This refers to increased thirst, which may be a side effect of Lasix but does not necessarily indicate treatment failure.
Question 5 of 5
Good conduction of electricity from the patient's heart to the monitor requires that the critical care nurse
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because placing electrodes with contacts on their anterior and posterior surfaces ensures better conduction of electricity from the heart to the monitor. This allows for a more accurate reading of the patient's heart activity. Option A is incorrect as changing electrode pads periodically does not necessarily improve conduction. Option B is incorrect as ribs are not excellent conductors of electricity. Option D is incorrect as placing electrodes further apart does not help improve conduction but may instead result in poor signal quality.