ATI RN
health assessment exam 1 test bank Questions
Question 1 of 9
A patient drifts off to sleep when there is no stimulation. The nurse can arouse her easily by calling her name, but she remains drowsy during the conversation. The best description of this patient's level of consciousness would be:
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Lethargic. Lethargic is defined as a state of drowsiness or diminished alertness where the patient can be easily aroused by simple stimuli like calling their name, but they remain drowsy and may drift back to sleep. This patient's ability to be aroused by verbal stimuli and their drowsiness during conversation fits the description of lethargic. Explanation for other choices: B: Obtunded - Obtunded refers to a more severe level of decreased consciousness where the patient is difficult to fully arouse and may have limited interactions with the nurse. C: Stuporous - Stuporous indicates an even deeper state of unconsciousness where the patient requires significant stimulation to be aroused and has minimal responsiveness. D: Semialert - Semialert would describe a patient who is more responsive than lethargic, showing better awareness of their surroundings and able to maintain a conversation more effectively.
Question 2 of 9
Which of the following statements accurately reflects the concept of ethnicity?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because ethnicity is defined by shared heritage, culture, language, or religion. This definition encompasses the key components that make up an individual's ethnic identity. Choice A is incorrect because while political forces may influence ethnicity, it does not define the concept itself. Choice C is incorrect as ethnicity is not necessarily related to belief in a higher power. Choice D is incorrect as ethnicity is not solely a learned behavior but also includes innate aspects like heritage.
Question 3 of 9
A 60-year-old woman is undergoing a mammogram. The nurse explains that the procedure is done to:
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because mammograms are specifically designed to detect abnormal growths or tumors in the breast tissue, particularly in the early stages of breast cancer. This is crucial for early detection and effective treatment. Choice B is incorrect because mammograms are not used to identify changes in hormone levels. Choice C is incorrect because mammograms do not evaluate lung function related to breast cancer. Choice D is incorrect because mammograms do not assess for signs of osteoporosis; a bone density scan is typically used for that purpose.
Question 4 of 9
A nurse is assessing a 45-year-old male patient with a history of smoking. The nurse would be most concerned if the patient reports:
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because shortness of breath with minimal exertion indicates possible respiratory distress, which can be a sign of significant lung damage from smoking. This symptom suggests a decreased ability to exchange oxygen and carbon dioxide efficiently, potentially leading to serious health complications. Choice B is incorrect because an occasional cough with mucus production is common in smokers and may not be as alarming as shortness of breath. Choice C is incorrect as slight wheezing after physical activity could be due to exercise-induced asthma rather than solely smoking-related issues. Choice D is incorrect because even though the patient may not be experiencing symptoms related to smoking currently, it does not rule out potential underlying lung damage or future health risks associated with smoking.
Question 5 of 9
A 19-year-old woman comes to the clinic at the insistence of her brother. She is wearing black combat boots and a black lace nightgown over her other clothes. Her hair is dyed pink with black streaks. She has several piercings in her nares and ears and is wearing an earring on her eyebrow and heavy black makeup. The nurse concludes that:
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because more information should be gathered to assess the situation appropriately. The woman's appearance may suggest alternative lifestyles or personal expression rather than mental health issues. It is essential to avoid assumptions based solely on appearance and gather a comprehensive history to understand her choices. Options A and B are dismissive and judgmental, failing to consider the complexity of human behavior. Option C is incorrect as the presented information does not provide enough evidence to diagnose manic syndrome. In summary, option D is the most logical and ethical approach to understanding the woman's situation without making unfounded assumptions.
Question 6 of 9
A nurse is caring for a patient who is post-operative following a knee replacement. The nurse should encourage the patient to perform which of the following exercises to prevent complications?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Quadriceps setting exercises. These exercises help prevent complications by strengthening the quadriceps muscles, which are crucial for knee stability and joint support post-surgery. They also aid in preventing muscle atrophy and promoting blood circulation. Leg lifts with weights (B) may strain the knee joint, leading to complications. Isometric muscle contractions (C) involve static muscle contractions and do not provide the necessary range of motion needed post-knee surgery. Active range-of-motion exercises (D) may be beneficial but should be performed after quadriceps setting exercises to avoid unnecessary strain on the knee joint.
Question 7 of 9
A patient with diabetes is experiencing a hypoglycemic episode. Which of the following is the nurse's first priority in this situation?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Providing a source of fast-acting carbohydrate. In a hypoglycemic episode, the priority is to raise the blood sugar quickly to prevent further complications. Fast-acting carbohydrates such as glucose tablets or orange juice can rapidly increase blood sugar levels. Administering insulin (choice A) can further lower blood sugar, checking blood glucose levels (choice C) may delay treatment, and contacting the healthcare provider (choice D) is not necessary in the immediate management of hypoglycemia.
Question 8 of 9
A nurse is caring for a patient who is post-operative following a cesarean section. The nurse should prioritize which of the following interventions?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Monitoring for signs of hemorrhage. This is the priority intervention because post-cesarean section hemorrhage is a life-threatening complication that requires immediate attention. The nurse should monitor the patient's vital signs, uterine firmness, and amount of vaginal bleeding to detect any signs of hemorrhage and take prompt action if necessary. Option A is incorrect because pain management is important but not the priority in this situation. Option B is also incorrect as breastfeeding can be encouraged after the patient's condition is stable. Option D is not the priority as preventing deep vein thrombosis is important but not as urgent as monitoring for hemorrhage.
Question 9 of 9
A nurse is teaching a patient with asthma about managing triggers. Which of the following statements by the patient indicates the need for further education?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: "I should smoke to relieve stress and manage symptoms." This statement indicates a need for further education because smoking can worsen asthma symptoms. Here's the rationale: 1. Smoking is a common trigger for asthma exacerbations due to irritants in tobacco smoke. 2. Smoking can lead to airway inflammation and constriction, making asthma symptoms more severe. 3. Asthma management involves avoiding smoking and secondhand smoke exposure. 4. Choices A, B, and D are correct as they align with asthma management guidelines to avoid triggers and use inhalers as prescribed.