ATI RN
health assessment practice questions Questions
Question 1 of 9
A patient comes into the emergency department after an accident at work. He had not been wearing safety glasses, and a machine had blown dust into his eyes. The nurse examines his corneas by shining a light from the side across the cornea. What findings would suggest that he has suffered corneal abrasion?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D. A shattered look to the light rays reflecting off the cornea indicates corneal abrasion. When the cornea is scratched or abraded, light rays reflecting off it appear shattered due to irregularities on the corneal surface. This is a classic sign of corneal abrasion. A: Smooth and clear corneas (incorrect) - This would not indicate corneal abrasion as abrasions cause irregularities on the corneal surface. B: Opacity of the lens behind the cornea (incorrect) - This suggests a different issue related to the lens, not corneal abrasion. C: Bleeding from the areas across the cornea (incorrect) - This suggests a more severe injury like a corneal laceration, not a simple abrasion. In summary, choice D is correct as the shattered look of light rays is a characteristic finding in corneal abrasion, while the other choices do not
Question 2 of 9
A nurse is interviewing a 75-year-old patient. Why might the interview take longer with this patient?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A. Older adults may have a longer story to tell due to their wealth of life experiences. This can include medical history, family background, and personal stories that may impact their health. It is important for the nurse to gather all relevant information to provide appropriate care. Choice B is incorrect because not all older adults are lonely, and the reason for a longer interview is not solely based on the need for social interaction. Choice C is incorrect because while some older adults may experience cognitive decline, it is not a blanket statement that all older adults lose mental abilities. Choice D is incorrect because hearing loss is not a universal issue among older adults, and assuming so can lead to ageist stereotypes.
Question 3 of 9
A patient is brought by ambulance to the emergency department with multiple injuries received in an automobile accident. He is alert and cooperative, but his injuries are quite severe. How should the nurse proceed with the data collection?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B. When a patient with severe injuries is brought to the emergency department, the nurse should prioritize performing a physical examination and initiating lifesaving measures while asking history questions simultaneously. This approach allows for immediate assessment and intervention to address any life-threatening conditions. Gathering history information while performing the examination ensures that critical details are not missed and helps in making timely decisions. Choosing option A could delay lifesaving interventions, while option C is not a priority during the initial assessment of a critically injured patient. Option D is incorrect as it prioritizes lifesaving measures over obtaining important history information during the initial assessment.
Question 4 of 9
Spirituality is a personal search for:
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because spirituality involves seeking meaning in one's life, which can provide a sense of purpose and fulfillment. This search is personal and introspective, focusing on individual values and beliefs. A, B, and C are incorrect because spirituality is not solely about belief in a supreme being, adherence to a specific system of beliefs, or the pursuit of life after death. Rather, it is about finding meaning, connection, and inner peace in one's existence.
Question 5 of 9
Which of the following should be assessed first in a client with a high fever?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Check for dehydration. When a client has a high fever, assessing for dehydration is crucial because fever can lead to increased fluid loss through sweating and increased respiratory rate. Dehydration can exacerbate the client's condition and needs to be addressed promptly. Monitoring respiratory rate (choice A) and pulse (choice D) are important assessments but do not address the immediate need to identify dehydration. Obtaining a blood sample (choice B) may be necessary at some point but is not the initial priority in a client with a high fever. Thus, checking for dehydration should be assessed first to ensure proper management of the client's condition.
Question 6 of 9
Which value should a nurse monitor closely when a client is on TPN?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Glucose. Total Parenteral Nutrition (TPN) is a form of nutrition delivered directly into the bloodstream, providing all essential nutrients including glucose. Monitoring glucose levels is crucial to prevent hyperglycemia or hypoglycemia. Calcium (A), Magnesium (B), and Cholesterol (D) are not typically monitored closely when a client is on TPN, as they are not directly impacted by TPN administration. Calcium and Magnesium levels are usually monitored for other conditions, and Cholesterol levels are not typically affected by TPN administration.
Question 7 of 9
The nurse is conducting an eye clinic at the day care centre. When examining a 2-year-old child, if"lazy eye" is suspected, the nurse would:
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because testing for strabismus by performing the corneal light reflex test is crucial in diagnosing "lazy eye" or amblyopia in children. Strabismus is a condition where the eyes are misaligned, leading to poor vision in one eye. By performing the corneal light reflex test, the nurse can assess if the child's eyes are aligned or if there is deviation, which could indicate lazy eye. Options A, B, and C are incorrect as they do not specifically address the assessment of strabismus, which is the key indicator for lazy eye in this scenario.
Question 8 of 9
A nurse is teaching a patient with a history of stroke about reducing the risk of another stroke. Which of the following lifestyle changes should the nurse emphasize?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: All of the above. This is the best choice because reducing the risk of another stroke requires a holistic approach. A: Limiting sodium and cholesterol intake helps manage blood pressure and cholesterol levels, reducing the risk of stroke. B: Increasing physical activity and managing weight can improve cardiovascular health and overall well-being, reducing the risk of stroke. C: Taking prescribed medications regularly, such as blood thinners or antihypertensives, is crucial in preventing another stroke. In summary, all three choices address key risk factors for stroke prevention, making them essential components of a comprehensive stroke prevention plan.
Question 9 of 9
What should be the first step in managing a client with suspected spinal cord injury?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct first step is to immobilize the spine (A) in a suspected spinal cord injury to prevent further damage. This helps to stabilize the spine and prevent any potential movement that could worsen the injury. Providing pain relief (B) should come after immobilization. Assessing for signs of spinal shock (C) is important but comes after immobilization. Placing the client in a supine position (D) can be part of immobilization but is not the first step.