ATI RN
Adult Health Nursing Answer Key Questions
Question 1 of 5
A patient presents with irritability, muscle weakness, tremors, and weight loss despite increased appetite. Laboratory tests reveal elevated serum thyroid hormone levels and suppressed thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels. Which endocrine disorder is most likely responsible for these symptoms?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The symptoms of irritability, muscle weakness, tremors, weight loss despite increased appetite, along with elevated serum thyroid hormone levels and suppressed TSH levels, are indicative of hyperthyroidism. In hyperthyroidism, the thyroid gland produces an excess amount of thyroid hormone, leading to an overactive metabolism. This results in symptoms such as weight loss, tremors, irritability, and muscle weakness. The elevated levels of thyroid hormone are detected in the laboratory tests, along with low TSH levels due to negative feedback regulation. Therefore, the most likely endocrine disorder responsible for these symptoms is hyperthyroidism.
Question 2 of 5
A patient presents with sudden onset of severe chest pain radiating to the back, hypotension, and a widened mediastinum on chest X-ray. Which cardiovascular disorder is most likely responsible for these symptoms?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Failed to generate a rationale of 500+ characters after 5 retries.
Question 3 of 5
A patient presents with chest pain that worsens with swallowing and is relieved by leaning forward. An electrocardiogram (ECG) shows diffuse ST-segment elevation. Which cardiovascular disorder is most likely responsible for these symptoms?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The given clinical presentation of chest pain that worsens with swallowing and is relieved by leaning forward along with diffuse ST-segment elevation on an ECG is highly suggestive of pericarditis. Pericarditis is the inflammation of the pericardium, the thin sac surrounding the heart. The symptoms of pericarditis can mimic those of myocardial infarction (heart attack) but can also be differentiated by certain characteristics such as the described positional chest pain, which is worsened by swallowing and relieved by leaning forward.
Question 4 of 5
A patient with terminal cancer is experiencing severe pain despite receiving analgesics. Which intervention by the palliative nurse is most appropriate?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: In a situation where a patient with terminal cancer is experiencing severe pain despite receiving analgesics, consulting with a pain management specialist is the most appropriate intervention. Pain management specialists have expertise in managing complex pain situations, especially in cases of terminal illness where pain control is crucial for improving quality of life. The specialist can review the current pain management plan, suggest alternative or adjunct therapies, adjust medication dosages, or explore different types of analgesics to optimize pain relief for the patient. Collaborating with a pain management specialist can help ensure the patient receives the most effective and personalized pain management approach tailored to their specific needs. Increasing the dose of analgesics, administering a different type of analgesic, or recommending non-pharmacological techniques may be appropriate interventions but should be guided by a specialist to ensure safe and effective pain management in a palliative care setting.
Question 5 of 5
A patient receiving palliative care for end-stage heart failure experiences severe fatigue and limited mobility. What intervention should the palliative nurse prioritize to promote the patient's comfort and quality of life?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: In this scenario, the palliative nurse should prioritize encouraging the patient to conserve energy and avoid unnecessary activities (Option B). End-stage heart failure can lead to severe fatigue and limited mobility, making it essential for the patient to conserve energy to prevent exacerbating symptoms and improve quality of life. Engaging in physical therapy (Option A) may not be suitable for a patient experiencing severe fatigue, as it can further drain energy reserves. Prescribing stimulant medications (Option C) may have limited effectiveness and potential side effects. Referring the patient to a nutritionist for dietary modifications (Option D) is important for overall health but may not directly address the immediate comfort and quality of life concerns related to fatigue and limited mobility. Helping the patient prioritize energy conservation will allow them to use their limited energy for essential activities, leading to a more comfortable and fulfilling experience while receiving palliative care for end-stage heart failure.