ATI RN
NCLEX Practice Questions Cardiovascular System Questions
Question 1 of 4
A client with atrial fibrillation is receiving digoxin (Lanoxin). It is MOST important for the nurse to?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Digoxin slows heart rate in atrial fibrillation; measuring the apical pulse before administration ensures it’s not below 60 bpm, preventing bradycardia toxicity. Other actions are useful but secondary to this safety priority.
Question 2 of 4
A patient is admitted to the hospital for a carotid angiogram with stent placement. The patient's spouse states, 'I don’t want my spouse to find out there is a risk of a stroke connected with this procedure because they won’t sign the consent form.' The cardiac-vascular nurse’s most appropriate action is to:
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The nurse must ensure the patient’s informed consent by assessing their understanding of risks (e.g., stroke), benefits, and alternatives, respecting autonomy. B misleads, C avoids full disclosure, and D is procedural, not ethical.
Question 3 of 4
The pulmonary circulation is responsible for:
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Pulmonary circulation specifically refers to the movement of blood between the heart and lungs. It begins when the right ventricle pumps deoxygenated blood into the pulmonary arteries, carrying it to the lungs (Choice B). Choice A describes systemic circulation, Choice C is the return phase (via pulmonary veins to the left atrium), and Choice D is the role of the vena cavae, not pulmonary circulation.
Question 4 of 4
The medical term for a heart attack is:
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: A heart attack is medically termed myocardial infarction (Choice B), referring to the death of heart muscle (myocardium) due to prolonged lack of oxygen, typically from a blocked coronary artery. Myocarditis (Choice A) is heart muscle inflammation, endocarditis (Choice C) is infection of the heart’s inner lining, and pericarditis (Choice D) is inflammation of the heart’s outer sac—none describe a heart attack. Choice B is correct.