ATI RN
ATI Medical Surgical Proctored Exam Questions
Question 1 of 5
A client with a spinal cord injury at T6 suddenly reports a pounding headache and blurred vision. What action should the nurse take first?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct action is to check the client's blood pressure first. A sudden onset of pounding headache and blurred vision in a client with a spinal cord injury at T6 can indicate autonomic dysreflexia. Checking the blood pressure is crucial as autonomic dysreflexia can lead to severe hypertension, which can result in life-threatening complications such as stroke or seizure. Immediate assessment and intervention are necessary to prevent further harm. Administering pain medication without addressing the underlying cause can exacerbate hypertension. Placing the client in a supine position can worsen symptoms, and increasing fluid intake does not address the immediate issue at hand. Therefore, checking the blood pressure is the priority to identify and manage autonomic dysreflexia effectively.
Question 2 of 5
A nurse cares for a client with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease who has been prescribed continuous oxygen therapy at home. Which statement indicates the client correctly understands the teaching?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because using cotton balls to cushion the oxygen tubing on the ears helps prevent skin irritation or pressure ulcers. This indicates the client understands the importance of skin care and comfort while using oxygen therapy. A: Incorrect. The client should wear oxygen during all activities that increase oxygen demand, not just when feeling short of breath during exercise. B: Incorrect. Using portable oxygen near an open flame like a grill can result in a fire hazard. D: Incorrect. Smoking while using oxygen therapy is extremely dangerous and can lead to a fire.
Question 3 of 5
A client has a pleural chest tube. Which action should the nurse take to ensure safe use of this equipment?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Keep padded clamps at the bedside for use if the drainage system is interrupted. This is essential because if the drainage system is interrupted, the nurse needs to immediately clamp the tube to prevent air from entering the pleural space. Clamping the tube can prevent a potentially life-threatening situation. A: Never strip the tubing to maintain patency - Stripping the tubing can lead to increased negative pressure, which can be harmful. B: Secure tubing junctions with tape to prevent accidental disconnections - While securing tubing is important, clamping the tube in case of interruption is more critical. C: Set wall suction at the level recommended by the device manufacturer - This is important for proper functioning but not as crucial as having clamps ready for emergencies.
Question 4 of 5
A client tests positive for alpha1-antitrypsin (AAT) deficiency and asks the nurse, What does this mean? How should the nurse respond?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Rationale: C is correct because AAT deficiency increases the risk of COPD, especially with smoking. This response provides accurate information regarding the client's health risk. A is incorrect as it specifically mentions children rather than the client's own risk. B is incorrect as it focuses on genetic counseling rather than addressing the client's question. D is incorrect as it inaccurately states that the gene does not affect health.
Question 5 of 5
A nurse cares for a female client who has a family history of cystic fibrosis. The client asks, Will my children have cystic fibrosis? How should the nurse respond?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Rationale: C is correct because it encourages genetic testing for both the client and their partner to assess the risk of passing on the cystic fibrosis gene. This approach provides the necessary information for informed decision-making regarding family planning. A is incorrect because being a carrier does not guarantee that the children will also be carriers. B is incorrect as it inaccurately states that if the client is a carrier, their children will have the disorder. D is incorrect because it oversimplifies the etiology of cystic fibrosis and suggests dietary adjustments as a solution, which is not effective in managing the genetic condition.