ATI RN
Multiple Choice Questions on Oxygen Therapy Questions
Question 1 of 5
A nurse is caring for a patient with a history of asthma who is experiencing shortness of breath. What is the priority intervention?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: In this scenario, the priority intervention for a patient with a history of asthma experiencing shortness of breath is to administer a bronchodilator (Option A). The rationale behind this is that a bronchodilator works quickly to open up the airways, providing immediate relief for the patient's breathing difficulty. This is crucial in managing an acute asthma exacerbation and should be the first-line intervention to improve the patient's respiratory status. Administering a nebulized bronchodilator (Option B) is a valid intervention as well, but it may take slightly longer to take effect compared to a directly administered bronchodilator. Corticosteroids (Options C and D) are important in managing asthma exacerbations to reduce airway inflammation, but they are not the initial priority in addressing acute shortness of breath. Educationally, understanding the hierarchy of interventions in managing asthma exacerbations is crucial for nurses to provide timely and effective care to patients. Recognizing the need for prompt bronchodilator administration can significantly impact patient outcomes and prevent further respiratory distress.
Question 2 of 5
A nurse is caring for a patient with a history of asthma who is experiencing shortness of breath. What is the priority nursing action?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: In the context of caring for a patient with asthma experiencing shortness of breath, the priority nursing action is to administer a bronchodilator (Option A). This is because bronchodilators help to dilate the airways, allowing for easier breathing and improved oxygenation, which is crucial in managing an acute asthma exacerbation and addressing the immediate issue of shortness of breath. Administering corticosteroids (Option B) is important in the management of asthma to reduce airway inflammation; however, it is not the priority in this acute situation where the focus is on relieving the patient's immediate respiratory distress. Administering pain medication (Option C) and morphine (Option D) are not appropriate actions in this scenario as they do not address the underlying cause of the shortness of breath in a patient with asthma. Educationally, understanding the prioritization of interventions based on the patient's condition is crucial for nursing practice. By prioritizing the administration of a bronchodilator in this case, the nurse is addressing the most urgent need of the patient and working towards stabilizing their respiratory status.
Question 3 of 5
A nurse is caring for a patient who is experiencing an asthma attack. What is the priority intervention?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: In the context of caring for a patient experiencing an asthma attack, administering a bronchodilator is the priority intervention. Asthma attacks are characterized by airway constriction and inflammation, leading to difficulty breathing. Bronchodilators work by relaxing the muscles around the airways, making it easier for the patient to breathe. Administering a bronchodilator promptly can help alleviate the symptoms and improve the patient's oxygenation. Option B, administering a nebulized bronchodilator, is similar to the correct answer but specifies the route of administration. While nebulized bronchodilators can be effective, the priority in this scenario is to quickly deliver the medication to the patient to provide immediate relief. Option C, administering a bronchodilator, is a duplicate of option A, and therefore is not the best choice for the priority intervention. Option D, encouraging early ambulation, is not appropriate during an asthma attack as it may exacerbate the patient's breathing difficulties. Early ambulation is not indicated until the patient's respiratory distress is resolved. In an educational context, it is crucial for nurses to prioritize interventions based on the patient's condition and the urgency of the situation. Understanding the pathophysiology of asthma and the mechanism of action of bronchodilators is essential in providing effective care to patients experiencing respiratory distress. Prompt and accurate intervention can significantly impact patient outcomes in such critical situations.
Question 4 of 5
A nurse is caring for a postoperative patient who is experiencing pain. What is the priority intervention?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is B) Administer IV morphine. The priority intervention for a postoperative patient experiencing pain is to address their pain promptly and effectively to ensure their comfort and well-being. Morphine is a potent analgesic that can provide rapid relief for moderate to severe pain commonly experienced postoperatively. Option A) Administer pain medications is vague and does not specify the type or route of medication, unlike option B which specifically mentions IV morphine. Option C) Administer IV fluids is not the priority when the patient's primary concern is pain management. Option D) Administer insulin is irrelevant in the context of managing postoperative pain. Educationally, understanding the importance of timely pain management in postoperative care is crucial for nursing practice. By selecting the correct intervention, nurses can demonstrate their competency in providing patient-centered care and promoting comfort and recovery. It is essential for nurses to prioritize pain assessment and management to ensure optimal patient outcomes and satisfaction.
Question 5 of 5
A nurse is caring for a patient with a history of stroke. The patient is exhibiting slurred speech and weakness. What is the priority intervention?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: In this scenario, the priority intervention for a patient with a history of stroke exhibiting slurred speech and weakness is option A) Perform a neurological exam. This is the correct choice because the patient's symptoms suggest a potential recurrent stroke or worsening condition, and a neurological exam is crucial in assessing the extent of neurological impairment and determining the appropriate course of action. Option B) Administer corticosteroids is incorrect because corticosteroids are not typically indicated for acute stroke management and would not address the immediate need to assess the patient's neurological status. Option C) and D) both mention administering insulin, which is not relevant to the situation described and would not address the patient's presenting symptoms or the potential neurological emergency at hand. From an educational perspective, understanding the importance of prioritizing assessments and interventions based on the patient's clinical presentation is crucial in acute care settings. A neurological exam allows for a comprehensive evaluation of the patient's neurological status, which is essential in determining the appropriate interventions and ensuring timely and effective care for patients with stroke or stroke-like symptoms. This case highlights the significance of clinical assessment skills and critical thinking in nursing practice, emphasizing the need for prompt and accurate decision-making to provide optimal patient care.