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 protein released into the bloodstream when there is damage to the heart muscle, such as during an AMI. It is the most specific and sensitive marker for diagnosing AMI. Myoglobin is not as specific to the heart and can be elevated in other conditions. Homocysteine is not a marker for acute myocardial infarction. C-reactive protein is a marker of inflammation and is not specific to AMI. Therefore, monitoring cardiac-specific troponin levels is the best indicator of whether the patient has had an 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: Correct Answer: C - ST-segment elevation Rationale: 1. ST-segment elevation is a key indicator of myocardial infarction or heart attack, requiring immediate intervention. 2. Inverted P wave and first-degree AV block are generally benign findings and do not indicate acute cardiac issues. 3. Sinus tachycardia may be a normal response to stress or pain but does not specifically indicate myocardial infarction.
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: Step 1: Captopril is an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor commonly used in patients with heart conditions. Step 2: In a patient with chronic stable angina, captopril primarily works to prevent changes in heart muscle by reducing cardiac workload and improving blood flow. Step 3: By preventing changes in heart muscle, captopril helps to reduce the risk of complications in patients with diabetes mellitus and chronic stable angina. Step 4: The other choices (A: decrease heart rate, B: control blood glucose levels, D: reduce frequency of chest pain) are not the primary purposes of captopril in this patient population, making them incorrect. Summary: The correct answer is C because captopril's primary purpose in this scenario is to prevent changes in heart muscle, while the other choices do not align with the mechanism of action and intended outcomes of captopril in this patient population.
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 because inspecting feet weekly is crucial in PVD to monitor for any signs of infection, ulcers, or poor circulation. This can help prevent complications and promote early intervention. B: While exercise is beneficial, starting a walking program should be done gradually and under supervision to prevent injury. C: Wearing constrictive clothing can exacerbate circulation issues in PVD by restricting blood flow, leading to further complications. D: Standing for prolonged periods can worsen symptoms in PVD as it increases pressure on the legs, promoting blood pooling and discomfort. Sitting with legs elevated is usually recommended instead.
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 important to keep the affected extremity immobilized to prevent bleeding or injury at the insertion site. Bed rest is also necessary to reduce the risk of complications. Allowing the child to move around or sit in a chair could increase the risk of bleeding or injury. Choice A does not specify immobilizing the affected extremity, which is crucial post-procedure. Choice C involves unnecessary movement, which can be detrimental. Choice D allows sitting, which may not provide enough rest for proper recovery.