ATI RN
Med Surg Cardiovascular Test Bank Questions
Question 1 of 5
A patient who has had chest pain for several hours is admitted with a diagnosis of rule out acute myocardial infarction (AMI). Which laboratory test should the nurse monitor to best determine whether the patient has had an AMI?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Cardiac-specific troponin. Troponin is a sensitive and specific marker for myocardial injury. It rises within 3-4 hours of an AMI and remains elevated for up to 2 weeks. Monitoring troponin levels helps in confirming the diagnosis of AMI. Myoglobin is less specific and elevates early but lacks specificity for cardiac damage. Homocysteine and C-reactive protein are markers for cardiovascular risk but are not specific for AMI.
Question 2 of 5
Which electrocardiographic (ECG) change is most important for the nurse to report to the health care provider when caring for a patient with chest pain?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: ST-segment elevation. This ECG change is crucial to report because it indicates myocardial injury, often seen in acute myocardial infarction (heart attack). It requires immediate medical attention to prevent further damage to the heart. Inverted P wave (A) is commonly seen in conditions like atrial enlargement and is not typically associated with acute cardiac events. Sinus tachycardia (B) is a normal response to stress or physical activity and may not necessarily indicate a serious issue. First-degree atrioventricular block (D) is a relatively benign condition that usually does not require urgent intervention. In summary, ST-segment elevation is the most concerning ECG change due to its association with acute myocardial infarction, requiring prompt medical intervention.
Question 3 of 5
A patient with diabetes mellitus and chronic stable angina has a new order for captopril . The nurse should teach the patient that the primary purpose of captopril is to
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: prevent changes in heart muscle. Captopril is an ACE inhibitor that helps prevent remodeling of the heart muscle in patients with conditions like chronic stable angina and diabetes mellitus. This drug does not directly affect heart rate (A), blood glucose levels (B), or the frequency of chest pain (D). By inhibiting the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, captopril can reduce the strain on the heart and prevent adverse changes in heart structure and function over time. This is crucial in managing conditions like chronic stable angina and diabetes mellitus to prevent complications such as heart failure.
Question 4 of 5
A nurse is performing discharge teaching for a client with PVD. The nurse should teach the client to:
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: inspect his feet weekly. This is important for clients with peripheral vascular disease (PVD) to detect any signs of infection or injury early. Choice B is beneficial for improving circulation but not specific to PVD. Choice C, wearing constrictive clothing, can further restrict blood flow and worsen PVD symptoms. Choice D, standing rather than sitting, can increase pressure on the legs and worsen symptoms of PVD. Therefore, regular foot inspections are the most appropriate teaching for a client with PVD.
Question 5 of 5
A child returns to his room after a cardiac catheterization. Which nursing intervention is most appropriate?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Maintain the child on bed rest with the affected extremity immobilized. After a cardiac catheterization, it is crucial to keep the affected extremity immobilized to prevent bleeding or complications at the catheter site. Bed rest helps reduce the risk of bleeding and ensures the child's safety. Choices A, C, and D involve allowing the child to move or sit up, which can increase the risk of bleeding. Choice A does not specify immobilizing the extremity, which is essential post-catheterization. Choice C involves unnecessary movement, and choice D allows sitting, which may also increase the risk of bleeding.