ATI RN
ATI Neurological System Questions Questions
Question 1 of 5
A patient with a spinal cord injury at level C3-4 is being cared for in the ED. What is the priority assessment?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: In caring for a patient with a spinal cord injury at level C3-4 in the emergency department, the priority assessment is to monitor respiratory effort and oxygen saturation level, which is option D. This is crucial because injuries at this level can affect the diaphragm and respiratory muscles, potentially leading to respiratory compromise or failure. Assessing for respiratory adequacy is essential to prevent respiratory distress and ensure the patient's airway remains patent. Monitoring oxygen saturation levels helps in identifying early signs of hypoxia, guiding interventions to maintain adequate oxygenation. Option A, determining intact sensation, and option B, assessing retained mobility, are not the priority in this situation as airway and breathing take precedence over other assessments in emergency care. While assessing for spinal shock by checking blood pressure and pulse (option C) is important, it is not the immediate priority when compared to ensuring adequate ventilation and oxygenation. Educationally, this scenario highlights the critical nature of assessing and managing respiratory function in patients with high spinal cord injuries. It underscores the importance of prioritizing assessments based on the patient's condition and potential life-threatening complications. This knowledge is essential for healthcare providers working in emergency settings to deliver safe and effective care to patients with neurological injuries.
Question 2 of 5
To determine the extent of Mr. Smith's head injury, what baseline nursing assessment is most important?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is option A) Respiratory status. When assessing a patient with a head injury, monitoring respiratory status is crucial as changes in this parameter can indicate increased intracranial pressure, which is a serious complication. The brain regulates respiratory function, so alterations in breathing patterns can be an early sign of neurological deterioration. It is essential to ensure adequate oxygenation to prevent further brain injury in patients with head trauma. Option B) Motor strength is important in neurological assessments, but in this case, assessing respiratory status takes precedence due to the potential for immediate life-threatening complications related to the head injury. Option C) Urinary output and option D) Gastrointestinal function are important aspects of overall patient assessment but are not the most critical in determining the extent of a head injury. Educationally, understanding the prioritization of assessments in patients with head injuries is crucial for nurses and healthcare providers working in various settings such as emergency departments, intensive care units, and neurology units. This knowledge ensures timely and appropriate intervention to prevent further complications and improve patient outcomes.
Question 3 of 5
Which of the following describes the pathophysiology of Parkinson disease?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D) Destruction of nerve cells of the basal ganglia of the brain. In Parkinson's disease, there is a progressive degeneration of dopamine-producing neurons in the substantia nigra of the basal ganglia. This leads to a decrease in dopamine levels, which in turn causes the characteristic motor symptoms of Parkinson's disease such as tremors, rigidity, and bradykinesia. Option A is incorrect because Parkinson's disease is not characterized by multiple foci of nerve degeneration throughout the brain and spinal cord; it is more localized to the basal ganglia. Option B is incorrect because Parkinson's disease is not due to a decreased secretion of acetylcholine at myoneural junctions. It is primarily a result of dopamine deficiency. Option C is incorrect because although atrophy of voluntary muscles can occur as a consequence of decreased movement and muscle disuse in Parkinson's disease, it is not the primary pathophysiology of the disorder. Understanding the pathophysiology of Parkinson's disease is crucial for healthcare professionals as it informs the treatment strategies such as dopamine replacement therapies and deep brain stimulation. By knowing the specific areas of the brain affected, healthcare providers can better understand the motor symptoms experienced by patients and provide tailored care and support.
Question 4 of 5
Mr. K., aged 60 years, has a diagnosis of transient ischemic attack. An essential aspect of his history that needs to be documented is
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A) sudden, brief loss of sensory, motor, or visual function. This is crucial to document because a transient ischemic attack (TIA) is characterized by temporary disruption of blood flow to the brain, leading to temporary neurologic deficits. Documenting the specific symptoms experienced during the TIA episode is essential for accurate diagnosis and appropriate management. Option B) determining if he has any allergies is incorrect as it is not directly related to the diagnosis of TIA. Allergies are important to document in a medical history but not specifically relevant to a TIA. Option C) any history of neurologic disease is incorrect because the focus here is on documenting the specific symptoms experienced during the TIA episode, not a general history of neurologic diseases. Option D) his medication history, both prescribed and over-the-counter, is important in a comprehensive assessment but is not as essential as documenting the specific symptoms experienced during the TIA episode. In an educational context, understanding the importance of accurate documentation in a patient's history is critical for healthcare professionals to provide effective care and treatment. This question highlights the significance of recognizing key information needed to assess and manage a patient presenting with a TIA, emphasizing the importance of thorough history-taking in neurological assessments.
Question 5 of 5
Twenty-four hours later Bob is discharged. Which of the following statements would indicate Bob understood your teaching?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: In this scenario, option B is the correct answer because it demonstrates the patient's understanding of the importance of monitoring for signs of complications post-discharge. Swelling and decreased temperature in the fingers of the left hand could indicate impaired circulation, requiring immediate medical attention. By mentioning elevation and prompt physician contact, the patient shows comprehension of self-care and when to seek professional help, reflecting effective teaching. Option A is incorrect because increasing pain in the arm should not be expected or ignored; persistent pain may indicate complications and should prompt immediate medical evaluation. Option C is incorrect as bleeding on the cast should not be circled but rather reported immediately to healthcare providers, as uncontrolled bleeding can lead to serious issues like infection or compromised healing. Option D is also incorrect as immobilizing the hand for a week without any mention of monitoring for complications or seeking medical advice could lead to potential issues such as stiffness or further complications. From an educational standpoint, this question highlights the importance of patient education in promoting post-discharge self-care and recognizing signs of complications. It emphasizes the significance of clear communication between healthcare providers and patients to ensure optimal outcomes and prevent adverse events. By assessing the patient's understanding through scenarios like this, healthcare professionals can gauge the effectiveness of their teaching and address any misconceptions or gaps in knowledge before discharge.