ATI RN
jarvis physical examination and health assessment 9th edition test bank Questions
Question 1 of 5
A patient has suddenly developed shortness of breath and appears to be in significant respiratory distress. Which of the following is the best action for the nurse to take?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Percuss the thorax bilaterally, noting any differences in percussion tones. This is the best action because it allows the nurse to assess for potential underlying issues such as pneumothorax or pleural effusion which could be causing the respiratory distress. Percussion can help identify abnormal air or fluid accumulation in the chest. Choice A is incorrect because simply counting respirations does not provide immediate information on the cause of distress. Choice C is incorrect as inspecting for masses and bleeding does not directly address the urgency of the situation. Choice D is incorrect as waiting for a chest x-ray would delay necessary interventions in a critical situation.
Question 2 of 5
When performing a physical assessment, the first technique the nurse will use is:
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Inspection. This is because visual observation is typically the initial step in a physical assessment to gather information about the patient's overall appearance, skin color, posture, and any obvious abnormalities. Palpation (A) involves touching and feeling for abnormalities, which usually follows inspection. Percussion (C) is the technique of tapping on the body to assess underlying structures, and auscultation (D) is listening to sounds produced by the body, both of which typically come after inspection and palpation. Inspecting the patient first allows the nurse to establish a baseline before moving on to more detailed assessment techniques.
Question 3 of 5
The nurse is interviewing a recent immigrant from Mexico. During the course of the interview, the man leans forward and then finally moves his chair close enough that his knees are nearly touching the nurse's. The nurse begins to feel uncomfortable with his proximity. Which of the following statements describes the most appropriate response by the nurse?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: "Try to relax; this behavior is culturally appropriate for this person." In Mexican culture, close proximity during conversations is common and signifies engagement and trust. By understanding cultural differences, the nurse can avoid misinterpreting the behavior. Moving the chair back (choice B) may be seen as rude. Assuming sexual aggression (choice C) without evidence is inappropriate. Laughing and asking to move away (choice D) may embarrass the individual. Understanding and respecting cultural norms is crucial in providing effective care.
Question 4 of 5
A female nurse is interviewing a male patient who is close in age to the nurse. During the interview, the patient makes an overtly sexual comment. The nurse's best response would be:
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because it directly addresses the inappropriate behavior, sets a boundary, and communicates the nurse's discomfort in a professional manner. By stating that the comment makes them uncomfortable and asking the patient to refrain from such behavior, the nurse asserts their professionalism while maintaining respect for both parties. Choice A is too abrupt and may escalate the situation. Choice B dismisses the behavior, which is inappropriate. Choice C could be perceived as confrontational and potentially lead to a defensive response from the patient.
Question 5 of 5
To assess affect, the nurse should ask the patient:
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Step-by-step rationale for why answer A is correct: 1. Asking "How do you feel today?" directly addresses the patient's emotional state. 2. Assessing affect involves understanding the patient's emotional response or mood. 3. This open-ended question encourages the patient to express their feelings. 4. It allows the nurse to gain insight into the patient's emotional well-being. 5. Options B, C, and D focus on different aspects like memory, medication effectiveness, and functional ability, not directly related to assessing affect.