ATI RN
ATI Med Surg Cardiovascular Test Bank Questions
Question 1 of 5
A patient who is being admitted to the emergency department with intermittent chest pain gives the following list of daily medications to the nurse. Which medication has the most immediate implications for the patient’s care?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: sildenafil (Viagra). Sildenafil is a phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitor used for erectile dysfunction and pulmonary arterial hypertension. It is contraindicated with nitrates due to the risk of severe hypotension. Given the patient's intermittent chest pain, which may suggest underlying cardiovascular issues, the use of sildenafil raises concerns about potential interactions with nitrate medications that may be needed for chest pain. This interaction can lead to a significant drop in blood pressure and exacerbate the patient's condition. A: Captopril is an ACE inhibitor used for hypertension. While important to monitor, it does not have immediate implications based on the patient's current presentation. C: Furosemide is a diuretic used for fluid overload. It is important in heart failure management but does not have immediate implications in this context. D: Warfarin is an anticoagulant used for thromboembolic disorders. While important for long-term management, it does
Question 2 of 5
A client is in the first postoperative day after left femoropopliteal revascularization. Which position would be most appropriate for this client?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: In high Fowler's position. This position promotes optimal circulation and respiratory function post-femoropopliteal revascularization. Elevating the head and upper body reduces venous return and decreases the risk of deep vein thrombosis. Choices A, C, and D do not provide the same benefits and may impede circulation or respiratory function.
Question 3 of 5
A client with dilated cardiomyopathy, pulmonary edema, and severe dyspnea is placed on dobutamine. Which assessment finding indicates that the drug is effective?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Increased activity tolerance. Dobutamine is a positive inotrope that increases cardiac contractility, leading to improved cardiac output and oxygen delivery. As a result, the client will experience increased energy levels and improved exercise tolerance. Absence of arrhythmias (B) is important but does not directly indicate the drug's effectiveness. Negative Homans' sign (C) is unrelated to dobutamine therapy. Blood pressure of 160/90 mm Hg (D) does not specifically reflect the drug's effectiveness in this context.
Question 4 of 5
An infant age 2 months has a tentative diagnosis of congenital heart defect. During physical assessment, the nurse notes that the infant has a pulse rate of 168 beats/minute and a respiratory rate of 72 breaths/minute. In which position should the nurse place the infant?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Lying on the back. Placing the infant on the back helps improve respiratory effort and oxygenation by allowing for maximum expansion of the lungs. This position also helps in reducing the workload on the heart, especially crucial in congenital heart defects. It promotes better blood circulation and oxygen delivery. Choice A: Upright in an infant seat may increase the workload on the heart due to the position's effect on blood flow and lung expansion. Choice C: Lying on the abdomen can compromise respiratory effort and decrease oxygenation, which could be detrimental in a child with a congenital heart defect. Choice D: Sitting in high Fowler's position may also add stress to the heart and lungs, potentially worsening the infant's condition.
Question 5 of 5
The nurse is caring for a client who has just undergone cardiac angiography. The catheter insertion site is free from bleeding or signs of hematoma. The vital signs and distal pulses remain in the client's normal range. The intravenous fluids were discontinued. The client is not hungry or thirsty and refuses any food or fluids, asking to be left alone to rest. Which of the following is the nurse's best response?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct response is A: "You are recovering well from the procedure and resting is a good idea." This is the best response because the client's vital signs, distal pulses, and catheter insertion site are stable, indicating a good recovery. Encouraging rest aligns with the client's expressed preference, which promotes comfort and healing. Choice B is incorrect as walking may not be suitable immediately post-cardiac angiography. Choice C is incorrect as forcing fluids on a client who is not thirsty can lead to discomfort. Choice D is incorrect as focusing on leg exercises may not be the priority at this immediate post-procedure stage.