ATI RN
ATI Fluid Electrolyte and Acid-Base Regulation Questions
Question 1 of 5
A patient who is being treated for pneumonia starts complaining of sudden shortness of breath. An arterial blood gas (ABG) is drawn. The ABG has the following values: pH 7.21, PaCO2 64 mm Hg, HCO3 = 24 mm Hg. What does the ABG reflect?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Respiratory acidosis. A low pH (7.21) indicates acidosis. The elevated PaCO2 (64 mm Hg) indicates respiratory acidosis, as high CO2 levels lead to carbonic acid formation, decreasing pH. The normal HCO3 (24 mm Hg) suggests compensation for the respiratory acidosis. Other choices are incorrect as they do not align with the ABG values provided. Metabolic alkalosis (B) would have a high pH and HCO3, respiratory alkalosis (C) would have a high pH and low PaCO2, and metabolic acidosis (D) would have a low pH and HCO3.
Question 2 of 5
The community health nurse is performing a home visit to an 84-year-old woman recovering from hip surgery. The nurse notes that the woman seems uncharacteristically confused and has dry mucous membranes. When asked about her fluid intake, the patient states, I stop drinking water early in the day because it is just too difficult to get up during the night to go to the bathroom. What would be the nurses best response?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because limiting fluids can lead to dehydration, which can cause confusion and dry mucous membranes. Adjusting the timing of fluids can help maintain hydration without causing frequent nighttime bathroom trips. Choice A is incorrect because hospital readmission is not necessary at this point. Choice C is incorrect as it normalizes confusion post-surgery and dangerous practice of avoiding urination at night. Choice D is incorrect because urine accumulation in the bladder does not directly cause confusion; dehydration is the primary concern.
Question 3 of 5
. A 73-year-old man comes into the emergency department (ED) by ambulance after slipping on a small carpet in his home. The patient fell on his hip with a resultant fracture. He is alert and oriented; his pupils are equal and reactive to light and accommodation. His heart rate is elevated, he is anxious and thirsty, a Foley catheter is placed, and 40 mL of urine is present. What is the nurses most likely explanation for the low urine output?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D. The man's elevated heart rate, anxiety, and low urine output indicate a sympathetic reaction. This reaction stimulates the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, leading to decreased urine output. The sympathetic response triggers the release of renin, which activates angiotensin II and aldosterone, causing vasoconstriction and water reabsorption in the kidneys, ultimately reducing urine output. Choice A is incorrect because low urine output is not solely due to urinating before arrival. Choice B is incorrect as there is no indication of traumatic brain injury or ADH deficiency. Choice C is incorrect as atrial natriuretic peptide in heart failure typically increases urine output.
Question 4 of 5
A nurse educator is reviewing peripheral IV insertion with a group of novice nurses. How should these nurses be encouraged to deal with excess hair at the intended site?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Clip the hair in the area. Clipping the hair is the most appropriate option as it reduces the risk of infection during IV insertion by minimizing the presence of bacteria that may be trapped in the hair. Shaving (B) can cause micro-abrasions leading to increased infection risk. Leaving the hair intact (A) can also trap bacteria. Using a depilatory (D) can cause skin irritation and should be avoided. In summary, clipping the hair is the best option to maintain a clean and safe environment for IV insertion.
Question 5 of 5
You are the nurse evaluating a newly admitted patients laboratory results, which include several values that are outside of reference ranges. Which of the following would cause the release of antidiuretic hormone (ADH)?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Increased serum sodium. High serum sodium levels trigger the release of antidiuretic hormone (ADH) from the pituitary gland to help retain water in the body and maintain fluid balance. This is a physiological response to prevent further dehydration. Decreased serum potassium (choice B), decreased hemoglobin (choice C), and increased platelets (choice D) do not directly stimulate the release of ADH. Hence, they are incorrect choices in this scenario.