ATI RN
ATI Medical Surgical Proctored Exam Questions
Question 1 of 5
A client with diabetes is experiencing symptoms of hypoglycemia. What should the nurse administer first?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: 15-20 grams of fast-acting carbohydrate orally. In hypoglycemia, the immediate goal is to raise blood glucose levels quickly. Fast-acting carbohydrates like glucose tablets or juice are the most effective and fastest way to raise blood sugar levels. Administering insulin (choice A) would further lower blood sugar levels. Intravenous dextrose (choice B) is appropriate for severe cases but may not be necessary as the first step. Glucagon (choice C) is typically used if the client is unconscious or unable to consume oral carbohydrates.
Question 2 of 5
A nurse is assessing a client with a history of seizures. Which assessment finding requires immediate intervention?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because prolonged seizures lasting longer than 5 minutes can lead to status epilepticus, a medical emergency that can cause brain damage or even death. Immediate intervention is necessary to stop the seizure activity. Auras (A) are warning signs of an impending seizure and do not require immediate intervention. Antiseizure medication within therapeutic range (B) indicates proper management. Being seizure-free for 2 years (C) is a positive outcome but does not require immediate intervention unless a seizure occurs.
Question 3 of 5
When caring for a client with Alzheimer's disease, what is the most appropriate communication technique for a nurse to use?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The most appropriate communication technique for a client with Alzheimer's disease is using simple and direct statements (Choice C). This approach is effective because it helps reduce confusion and enhances understanding for individuals with cognitive impairment. Complex explanations (Choice A) may overwhelm the client. Speaking loudly (Choice B) can be perceived as aggressive or intimidating. Offering multiple choices (Choice D) may lead to decision-making difficulties. Therefore, Choice C is the best option for clear and effective communication with Alzheimer's clients.
Question 4 of 5
A client with Parkinson's disease is prescribed carbidopa-levodopa (Sinemet). What should the nurse include in the teaching about this medication?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Expect the medication to take several weeks to reach full effectiveness. This is because carbidopa-levodopa (Sinemet) is a medication used to treat Parkinson's disease by increasing dopamine levels in the brain. It takes time for the medication to build up in the system and reach its full therapeutic effect. Choice A is incorrect because it is recommended to take carbidopa-levodopa with a high-protein meal to help reduce potential gastrointestinal side effects. Choice C is incorrect as the medication does not typically cause urine discoloration. Choice D is incorrect as a rapid heartbeat is not a common side effect of carbidopa-levodopa. In summary, choice B is correct because it aligns with the pharmacokinetics of the medication, while the other choices are not consistent with the usual effects and recommendations for carbidopa-levodopa.
Question 5 of 5
When caring for a client with acute renal failure, which laboratory value is most important to monitor?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Serum potassium. In acute renal failure, impaired kidney function can lead to electrolyte imbalances, especially hyperkalemia which can be life-threatening. Monitoring serum potassium levels is crucial to prevent cardiac complications. Serum sodium (A) may be altered, but potassium is more critical. Serum calcium (C) and chloride (D) levels are important but not as directly impacted in acute renal failure compared to potassium.