ATI RN
Respiratory System Questions Questions
Question 1 of 5
A man with normal lungs and arterial pCO2 of 40mmHg takes an overdose of barbiturates,which half his ventilation but don't change his CO2 output. What does his arterial pCO2 rise to?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: 80mmHg. When a person takes an overdose of barbiturates that reduce ventilation but not CO2 output, it leads to respiratory depression. This causes retention of CO2 in the body, leading to hypercapnia. With normal lungs and initial arterial pCO2 of 40mmHg, a rise to 80mmHg is expected due to the decreased ventilation. The other choices are incorrect because they do not account for the significant impact of reduced ventilation on CO2 retention in this scenario. Choice A, 70mmHg, is too low of a rise considering the drastic reduction in ventilation. Choices B and C, 50mmHg and 60mmHg, respectively, do not adequately reflect the extent of hypercapnia that occurs with respiratory depression.
Question 2 of 5
Nurse Oliver is caring for a client immediately after removal of the endotracheal tube. The nurse reports which of the following signs immediately if experienced by the client?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Stridor. Stridor is a high-pitched, harsh sound heard during inspiration or expiration due to airway obstruction. It is a critical sign that requires immediate attention as it indicates a potential blockage in the airway, which can lead to respiratory distress or failure. Explanation of why other choices are incorrect: - B: Occasional pink-tinged sputum may indicate mild bleeding, but it is not an immediate concern post-extubation. - C: A few basilar lung crackles on the right could indicate fluid in the lungs, but it is not as urgent as airway obstruction. - D: A respiratory rate of 24 breaths/min is within the normal range for an adult and does not necessarily indicate an immediate issue post-extubation.
Question 3 of 5
The nurse assesses a male client's respiratory status. Which observation indicates that the client is experiencing difÃculty breathing?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Use of accessory muscles. This indicates difficulty breathing as the client is struggling to breathe, leading to the recruitment of additional muscles such as neck and chest muscles to aid in respiration. Diaphragmatic breathing (A) is a normal breathing pattern. Pursed-lip breathing (C) is a technique used to improve breathing efficiency. Controlled breathing (D) refers to breathing techniques that help in relaxation but do not necessarily indicate difficulty breathing.
Question 4 of 5
When asked by a tubercular patient how long he will have to take his TB medications, the nurse's best response would be:
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B. Tuberculosis requires a prolonged treatment duration to ensure complete eradication of the bacterial infection. Typically, TB medications need to be taken for at least 6 to 9 months to prevent relapse or drug resistance. In some cases, especially if drug-resistant strains are involved, treatment can last up to 2 years. Choice A is incorrect because 2 weeks is not a sufficient duration for TB treatment. Choice C is incorrect because TB medications are not usually taken throughout the entire lifespan, but for a specific treatment period. Choice D is incorrect as it does not provide a specific and accurate answer to the patient's query regarding the duration of the treatment.
Question 5 of 5
Which of the following is NOT a function of the nasal cavities?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Oxygenate the blood. Nasal cavities are not directly involved in the process of oxygenating the blood. The main function of the nasal cavities is to filter dust out of incoming air, detect odors, and warm the air before it reaches the lungs. The blood is oxygenated in the lungs through the process of respiration, where oxygen from the air is absorbed into the bloodstream. Nasal cavities play a role in preparing the air for this process but do not directly oxygenate the blood.