ATI RN
ATI Med Surg Cardiovascular Test Bank Questions
Question 1 of 5
A client with dilated cardiomyopathy, pulmonary edema, and severe dyspnea is placed on dobutamine. Which assessment finding indicates that the drug is effective?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Increased activity tolerance. Dobutamine is a positive inotrope that improves cardiac contractility, leading to better cardiac output and improved exercise tolerance. In a client with dilated cardiomyopathy and pulmonary edema, an increase in activity tolerance indicates that the drug is effectively improving the heart's function. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as they do not directly relate to the drug's effectiveness in treating dilated cardiomyopathy and pulmonary edema. Absence of arrhythmias (Choice B) is important but not the primary assessment for dobutamine's effectiveness. Negative Homans' sign (Choice C) is unrelated to the drug's action. Blood pressure of 160/90 mm Hg (Choice D) is not a specific indicator of dobutamine's effectiveness in this context.
Question 2 of 5
The nurse is caring for a client who has just undergone cardiac angiography. The catheter insertion site is free from bleeding or signs of hematoma. The vital signs and distal pulses remain in the client's normal range. The intravenous fluids were discontinued. The client is not hungry or thirsty and refuses any food or fluids, asking to be left alone to rest. Which of the following is the nurse's best response?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: "You are recovering well from the procedure and resting is a good idea." This response acknowledges the client's autonomy and respects their desire for rest after the procedure. It also recognizes the client's normal vital signs and absence of complications. Encouraging rest promotes healing and reduces the risk of complications. Choice B is incorrect because forcing the client to walk may not be appropriate immediately after the procedure, especially if the client is fatigued or not feeling well. Choice C is incorrect because the client is not thirsty and forcing fluids may lead to discomfort. It's important to respect the client's preferences and monitor for signs of dehydration. Choice D is incorrect because while leg exercises are important for circulation, the client's immediate need for rest should be prioritized. It is essential to balance activity with rest based on the client's condition.
Question 3 of 5
The nurse is caring for a 2-month-old child with transposition of the great vessels. Which of these interventions has highest priority?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Maintaining proper caloric intake. In a child with transposition of the great vessels, ensuring adequate nutrition is critical for growth and development. Without proper caloric intake, the child's health and recovery may be compromised. Providing comfort for parents (A) is important but not the highest priority. Reducing stressors for the infant (C) is valuable but not as crucial as ensuring proper nutrition. Documenting vital signs (D) is essential but does not directly address the immediate physiological needs of the child. Maintaining proper caloric intake should be the priority to support the child's overall well-being and aid in their recovery.
Question 4 of 5
A nurse is monitoring a patient newly admitted with acute heart failure (HF). Which of the following laboratory/diagnostic results would indicate the presence of significant HF?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: BNP of 1000 pg/mL. B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) is released by the heart in response to increased pressure and volume overload, which commonly occurs in heart failure. A BNP level of 1000 pg/mL indicates significant HF. Choice B: Sodium of 150 is not specific to HF and may indicate dehydration or other electrolyte imbalances. Choice C: Potassium of 5.7 mEq/L is high but not specific to HF. It could result from kidney dysfunction or medication use. Choice D: pH of 7.30 may indicate acidosis, which can occur in various conditions, not just HF. In summary, BNP is a more specific marker for HF compared to the other choices.
Question 5 of 5
A patient has a VVIR mode pacemaker. The nurse knows that this pacemaker is characterized by which of the following?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because in a VVIR mode pacemaker: 1. Ventricular pacing: The pacemaker paces the ventricle. 2. Atrial sensing: It senses the atrial activity for timing. 3. Triggered response to sensing: It responds by pacing the ventricle after sensing an event. 4. Rate modulated: It can adjust the pacing rate based on the patient's physiological needs. Therefore, choice C accurately describes the characteristics of a VVIR mode pacemaker. Incorrect choices: A: Incorrect because it mentions atrial pacing, which is not a feature of VVIR mode. B: Incorrect because it includes ventricular sensing, which is not a feature of VVIR mode. D: Incorrect because it mentions ventricular sensing and inhibited response to sensing, which are not characteristics of VVIR mode pacemaker.