ATI RN
PN Vital Signs Assessment Questions
Question 1 of 5
A physical therapist using an electrical stimulation device attempts to quantify several characteristics of a monophasic waveform. When measuring phase charge, the standard unit of measure is the:
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: coulomb. Phase charge, which is the amount of electrical charge delivered during each phase of the waveform, is measured in coulombs. Coulomb is the standard unit of electric charge in the International System of Units (SI). It represents the quantity of electricity transported in one second by a current of one ampere. Ampere (B) is the unit of electric current, ohm (C) is the unit of resistance, and second (D) is the unit of time. Therefore, coulomb is the appropriate unit for measuring phase charge in a monophasic waveform.
Question 2 of 5
A physical therapist observes a patient performing a deep squat. Which muscle group is MOST active during the ascent phase?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The hip extensors are most active during the ascent phase of a deep squat as they are responsible for extending the hip joint, which is required to stand up from the squat position. Knee flexors, ankle dorsiflexors, and trunk flexors are not primarily responsible for the movement pattern of ascending from a deep squat. Hip extensors play a crucial role in this phase by generating the necessary force to lift the body upright.
Question 3 of 5
A physical therapist examines a patient with a history of recurrent lateral ankle sprains. Which special test would BEST assess ligamentous integrity?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Anterior drawer test. This test assesses the integrity of the anterior talofibular ligament in the lateral ankle. Step 1: Stabilize the lower leg and move the ankle into slight dorsiflexion. Step 2: Grasp the calcaneus and apply an anterior force. Step 3: Positive test indicates excessive anterior translation, suggesting ligamentous laxity. Incorrect choices: B: Thompson test assesses Achilles tendon integrity, not ligamentous integrity. C: Talar tilt test assesses calcaneofibular and deltoid ligament integrity, not specifically lateral ligament. D: Kleiger test assesses syndesmotic ligament integrity, not lateral ligament.
Question 4 of 5
What is the best method for the nurse to assess for cyanosis in a dark-skinned patient?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Examine the lips and oral mucosa. In dark-skinned patients, cyanosis may not be easily visible on the skin. Lips and oral mucosa are more sensitive areas where cyanosis can be detected early. Inspecting the sclera (choice A) may not show cyanosis accurately. Palpating the skin for coolness (choice C) is not a specific method for detecting cyanosis. Assessing capillary refill in the fingers (choice D) is more related to circulation status rather than directly assessing for cyanosis.
Question 5 of 5
What is the primary purpose of assessing for rebound tenderness during an abdominal examination?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The primary purpose of assessing for rebound tenderness during an abdominal examination is to evaluate for peritoneal inflammation. Rebound tenderness indicates irritation of the peritoneum, a membrane lining the abdominal cavity. This can be a sign of serious conditions like peritonitis. Organ enlargement (Choice A) may not necessarily cause rebound tenderness. Ascites (Choice B) is the accumulation of fluid in the peritoneal cavity, which may not directly cause rebound tenderness. Identifying abdominal masses (Choice D) is important but may not be the primary purpose of assessing for rebound tenderness.