ATI RN
ATI Cardiovascular Test Bank Questions
Question 1 of 5
A patient who has recently started taking pravastatin (Pravachol) and niacin reports several symptoms to the nurse. Which information is most important to communicate to the health care provider?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Generalized muscle aches and pains. This is important to communicate because it could indicate a serious side effect called rhabdomyolysis, a rare but serious condition where muscle breakdown releases toxic substances into the bloodstream. This can lead to kidney damage and other complications. B: Dizziness with rapid position changes is a common side effect of niacin and usually not as concerning as muscle aches. C: Nausea when taking the drugs before meals is a common side effect of niacin and can often be managed by taking the medication with food. D: Flushing and pruritus after taking the drugs are common side effects of niacin and not as serious as muscle aches.
Question 2 of 5
A client has just returned from cardiac catheterization. Which nursing intervention would be most appropriate?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Monitor peripheral pulses. After cardiac catheterization, monitoring peripheral pulses is crucial to assess for any signs of impaired circulation or complications such as arterial occlusion. This intervention helps to detect early warning signs and prevent potential complications. A: Helping the client ambulate to the bathroom is important for mobility but not the most critical intervention post-cardiac catheterization. B: Fluid restriction is not typically indicated after cardiac catheterization unless specifically ordered by the healthcare provider. D: Inserting an indwelling urinary catheter is not necessary unless there is a specific indication such as urinary retention. Monitoring peripheral pulses takes priority for assessing circulation status.
Question 3 of 5
Following a left anterior myocardial infarction, a client undergoes insertion of a pulmonary artery catheter. Which finding most strongly suggests left-sided heart failure?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: A rise in pulmonary artery diastolic pressure. This finding most strongly suggests left-sided heart failure because increased pressure in the pulmonary artery indicates increased resistance to blood flow from the left side of the heart. Left-sided heart failure leads to blood backing up into the pulmonary circulation, causing elevated pressures in the pulmonary artery. A: A drop in central venous pressure is more indicative of right-sided heart failure. B: An increase in the cardiac index may indicate compensation for decreased cardiac output, but it is not specific to left-sided heart failure. D: A decline in mean pulmonary artery pressure is not a typical finding in left-sided heart failure, as it usually causes increased pressure in the pulmonary artery due to congestion.
Question 4 of 5
An infant is diagnosed with patent ductus arteriosus. Which drug should the nurse anticipate administering to attempt to close the defect?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Step-by-step rationale for choosing D (Indomethacin): 1. Indomethacin is a prostaglandin inhibitor that helps close the patent ductus arteriosus by constricting the blood vessel. 2. The ductus arteriosus is a connection between the aorta and pulmonary artery in fetuses that should close after birth. 3. By inhibiting prostaglandin production, Indomethacin promotes closure of the ductus arteriosus in infants with patent ductus arteriosus. 4. Digoxin (Choice A) is a cardiac glycoside used for heart failure; Prednisone (Choice B) is a corticosteroid; Furosemide (Choice C) is a diuretic - none of these medications close the ductus arteriosus like Indomethacin.
Question 5 of 5
The nurse is caring for a client with a dignosis of aortic stenosis. The client reports episodes of angina and passing out recently at home. The client has surgery scheduled in 2 weeks. Which of the following would be the nurse's best explanation about activity at this time?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because strenuous activities can worsen aortic stenosis symptoms like angina and syncope. Stairs and lifting can increase the workload on the heart, which is already compromised in aortic stenosis. By avoiding these activities, the client reduces the risk of complications before surgery. Choice B is incorrect because although some activity is encouraged, taking short walks may not be appropriate if the client is experiencing angina and syncope. Choice C is incorrect because waiting for angina to reoccur before taking action can be dangerous, as it may indicate worsening of the condition. Choice D is incorrect because gradually increasing activity may not be safe for someone with aortic stenosis, as it can exacerbate symptoms and increase the risk of complications.