ATI RN
Cardiovascular Conditions Pediatrics Test Bank Questions Free Nursing Questions
Question 1 of 5
A client with Cushing's syndrome is recovering from an elective laparoscopic procedure. Which assessment finding warrants immediate intervention by the nurse?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: In the context of a client with Cushing's syndrome recovering from surgery, the immediate intervention warranted by the nurse is an irregular apical pulse, which is the correct answer (Option A). Cushing's syndrome is characterized by excess cortisol levels, which can lead to cardiovascular complications such as hypertension, fluid retention, and electrolyte imbalances. An irregular apical pulse could indicate cardiac arrhythmias or other cardiovascular issues that require prompt attention to prevent further complications or deterioration. Option B, purple marks on the skin of the abdomen (Cushing's striae), while associated with Cushing's syndrome, are not typically urgent or indicative of immediate complications post-surgery. Option C, a quarter-size blood spot on the dressing, may indicate some bleeding but is not as critical as a cardiac issue in this scenario. Option D, pitting ankle edema, is a common finding in both Cushing's syndrome and postoperative patients due to fluid retention, but it is not as urgent as addressing a potential cardiac problem. Educationally, understanding the specific manifestations of Cushing's syndrome, the postoperative care considerations for this population, and the prioritization of assessments based on potential complications are crucial for nurses caring for these patients. Recognizing the significance of cardiovascular assessments in high-risk patients like those with Cushing's syndrome can help prevent adverse events and promote better outcomes.
Question 2 of 5
When planning care for a client newly diagnosed with open angle glaucoma, the nurse identifies a priority nursing diagnosis of, 'visual sensory/perceptual alterations.' This diagnosis is based on which etiology?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: In the context of a client diagnosed with open-angle glaucoma, the priority nursing diagnosis of "visual sensory/perceptual alterations" is based on the etiology of decreased peripheral vision. This is the correct answer (B) because in open-angle glaucoma, there is a gradual increase in intraocular pressure leading to optic nerve damage. This damage initially affects the peripheral vision before progressing to central vision loss. Therefore, addressing the alteration in peripheral vision is crucial in the care of a client with glaucoma to prevent further visual impairment. Limited eye movement (A) is not the primary etiology for the nursing diagnosis in this case, as glaucoma primarily affects vision due to increased intraocular pressure rather than eye movement restrictions. Blurred distance vision (C) is a common symptom in various eye conditions but is not specific to open-angle glaucoma. Photosensitivity (D) is also not directly related to the etiology of visual sensory alterations in glaucoma. Educationally, understanding the pathophysiology of open-angle glaucoma and its impact on visual function is essential for nurses caring for clients with this condition. Recognizing the priority nursing diagnosis based on the specific etiology of the disease helps in providing targeted and effective care to prevent further vision loss and promote optimal visual health in these clients.
Question 3 of 5
A male client with diabetes mellitus (DM) is transferred from the hospital to a rehabilitation facility following treatment for a stroke with resulting right hemiplegia. He tells the nurse that his feet are always uncomfortably cool at night, preventing him from falling asleep. Which action should the nurse implement.
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D) Place warm blankets next to the client's feet. In this scenario, the client with diabetes mellitus experiencing cool feet could be due to poor circulation, a common complication of diabetes. By placing warm blankets next to his feet, the nurse can help improve circulation and provide warmth, which can alleviate the discomfort and help the client fall asleep comfortably. Option A) Providing a warming pad may not be suitable in this situation as it could potentially cause burns or skin damage, especially for a client with decreased sensation due to diabetes. Option B) Medicating the client with a sedative does not address the underlying issue of cool feet and may not be the most appropriate intervention for this specific symptom. Option C) Using a bed cradle to hold the covers off the feet may not effectively address the client's discomfort from cool feet and may not provide the warmth needed to improve circulation. Educational context: Understanding the underlying pathophysiology of conditions such as diabetes mellitus and how they can manifest in symptoms like cool feet is crucial in providing appropriate nursing care. Nurses need to be able to assess and address these symptoms effectively to promote patient comfort and well-being.
Question 4 of 5
A client with Addison's disease started taking hydrocortisone in a divided daily dose last week. It is most important for the nurse to monitor which serum laboratory value?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: In this scenario, the most crucial serum laboratory value for the nurse to monitor in a client with Addison's disease who started taking hydrocortisone is glucose (Option B). Rationale for Option B: Hydrocortisone is a corticosteroid used to replace deficient cortisol in conditions like Addison's disease. Corticosteroids can increase blood glucose levels by promoting gluconeogenesis and decreasing glucose uptake, which can lead to hyperglycemia. Monitoring glucose levels is essential to detect and manage hyperglycemia promptly, especially in pediatric patients who may be more vulnerable to glucose fluctuations. Rationale for Incorrect Options: A) Osmolarity: While changes in osmolarity can occur with certain medical conditions or treatments, monitoring glucose levels would be more directly related to the effects of hydrocortisone therapy in this case. C) Albumin: Albumin levels are important for assessing nutritional status and liver function but are not the most critical parameter to monitor when starting hydrocortisone therapy. D) Platelets: Platelet count is important for assessing clotting function but is not directly impacted by hydrocortisone therapy in the same way that glucose levels are. Educational Context: Understanding the rationale behind monitoring specific laboratory values in patients receiving certain medications is crucial for nurses to provide safe and effective care. In pediatric patients with Addison's disease starting hydrocortisone therapy, nurses must be vigilant in monitoring glucose levels to prevent and manage potential hyperglycemia complications. This educational context emphasizes the importance of individualizing patient care and tailoring monitoring based on the pharmacological effects of specific medications.
Question 5 of 5
While assessing a client with degenerative joint disease, the nurse observes Heberden's nodes, large prominences on the client's fingers that are reddened. The client reports that the nodes are painful. Which action should the nurse take?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Rationale: The correct answer is C) Discuss approaches to chronic pain control with the client. Heberden's nodes are a characteristic feature of osteoarthritis, not degenerative joint disease. These nodes are painful and can significantly impact the client's quality of life. Therefore, addressing the client's pain is a priority in their care plan. Option A) Reviewing the client's dietary intake of high-protein foods is not directly related to managing the client's pain associated with Heberden's nodes. While diet can impact joint health, it is not the immediate concern in this scenario. Option B) Notifying the healthcare provider immediately is not necessary in this case as the nurse can first initiate interventions to help alleviate the client's pain. Prompt pain management is crucial for improving the client's comfort and function. Option D) Assessing the client's radial pulses and capillary refill time is important for assessing circulation but is not the priority in addressing the client's current complaint of painful Heberden's nodes. Pain management should be the initial focus to address the client's immediate discomfort. Educational Context: Understanding the manifestations and management of osteoarthritis, including Heberden's nodes, is essential for nurses caring for clients with joint conditions. Effective pain management strategies can significantly improve the client's quality of life and functional ability. Nurses play a key role in assessing, educating, and implementing interventions to address pain in clients with joint diseases like osteoarthritis.