ATI RN
ATI Medical Surgical Proctored Exam Questions
Question 1 of 5
After completing a thorough neurological and physical assessment of a patient who is admitted for a suspected stroke, the medical-surgical nurse anticipates the next step in the immediate care of this patient will include
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: In the context of a suspected stroke, the next immediate step for the patient's care is to obtain a CT scan of the head without contrast (Option B). This is crucial because a CT scan can quickly identify if the stroke is ischemic or hemorrhagic, guiding subsequent treatment decisions. Administering tissue plasminogen activator (Option A) is a time-sensitive intervention for ischemic strokes, but it should only be done after a CT scan rules out hemorrhagic stroke to prevent potential worsening of bleeding. Obtaining a neurosurgical consultation (Option C) and preparing for carotid Doppler ultrasonography (Option D) may be necessary for further management or to assess risk factors, but they are not the immediate next steps in a suspected stroke scenario. From an educational perspective, understanding the sequence of actions in stroke care is vital for nurses to provide safe and effective patient care. This scenario highlights the importance of timely and appropriate diagnostic assessments to inform treatment decisions in acute neurological emergencies.
Question 2 of 5
When teaching a client with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease about oxygen by cannula, the nurse should also instruct the client's family to:
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: In teaching a client with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) about oxygen by cannula, instructing the client's family to avoid smoking near the client (Option A) is crucial for several reasons. First, smoking near a client with COPD can exacerbate their condition by introducing more irritants and pollutants into the air they breathe, worsening their respiratory symptoms. Second, oxygen supports combustion, so smoking near oxygen use poses a serious fire hazard. Educating the family about the risks of smoking near the client reinforces a smoke-free environment, promoting the client's respiratory health and safety. Option B, turning off oxygen during meals, is incorrect because interrupting oxygen therapy during meals can deprive the client of needed oxygen, especially when their respiratory demand increases with eating and digestion. Consistent oxygen therapy is vital for clients with COPD to maintain adequate oxygen levels. Option C, adjusting the liter flow to 10 as needed, is incorrect because oxygen flow rates should be prescribed by a healthcare provider based on the client's oxygen saturation levels, respiratory status, and individualized oxygen therapy plan. Changing the liter flow without medical guidance can lead to oxygen underuse or misuse. Option D, reminding the client to keep their mouth closed, is incorrect as it does not directly relate to oxygen therapy via cannula. While mouth breathing may impact oxygen delivery in some cases, it is not the primary concern when educating the client's family about oxygen therapy and COPD management. In an educational context, it is essential to emphasize the importance of a holistic approach to caring for clients with COPD. Educating both the client and their family members empowers them to create a supportive environment that enhances the client's well-being and adherence to treatment. Understanding the rationale behind each instruction helps family members play an active role in promoting the client's respiratory health and safety.
Question 3 of 5
The nurse is caring for a client with benign prostatic hypertrophy. Which of the following assessments would the nurse anticipate finding?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: In caring for a client with benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH), the nurse would anticipate finding frequent urination. This is because BPH can cause compression of the urethra, leading to urinary symptoms such as increased frequency of urination. Option A, a large volume of urinary output with each voiding, is incorrect for BPH as the condition typically leads to obstructive symptoms rather than increased volume. Option B, involuntary voiding with coughing and sneezing, is more indicative of stress incontinence, which is not typically associated with BPH. Option D, dark and concentrated urine, is not a common finding in BPH and is more suggestive of dehydration or other urinary issues. Educationally, understanding the expected assessment findings in clients with BPH is crucial for nurses to provide appropriate care and interventions. Recognizing the symptoms of BPH can help nurses implement effective management strategies and improve patient outcomes.
Question 4 of 5
The nurse is teaching a client who has a hip prostheses following total hip replacement. Which of the following should be included in the instructions for home care?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: In teaching a client with a hip prosthesis following total hip replacement, it is crucial to provide accurate information for optimal home care. The correct answer, "D) Do not cross legs," is important to prevent dislocation of the hip prosthesis. Crossing legs can put strain on the hip joint and increase the risk of dislocation, which is a common complication post-hip replacement surgery. Option A, "Avoid climbing stairs for 3 months," is incorrect because stair climbing is actually encouraged as part of rehabilitation to improve strength and mobility. Option B, "Ambulate using crutches only," is incorrect as the client should gradually progress from using crutches to walking independently as tolerated. Option C, "Sleep only on your back," is incorrect as the client can sleep in any position that is comfortable, as long as they follow hip precautions to avoid crossing legs or bending hips excessively. Educationally, it is important to emphasize the rationale behind each instruction to ensure the client understands the reasons for these precautions. By explaining the potential risks associated with crossing legs, the client is more likely to adhere to this instruction and actively participate in their recovery process, ultimately promoting positive outcomes and preventing complications.
Question 5 of 5
The nurse is teaching a client with dysrhythmia about the electrical pathway of an impulse as it travels through the heart. Which of these demonstrates the normal pathway?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: In teaching a client about the electrical pathway of an impulse through the heart, it is crucial to provide accurate information to ensure understanding and promote optimal learning. The correct answer, option D (SA node, AV node, Bundle of His, Purkinje fibers), demonstrates the normal pathway of an impulse in the heart. This sequence accurately represents the physiological order in which electrical impulses travel through the heart to coordinate its contractions effectively. Option A (AV node, SA node, Bundle of His, Purkinje fibers) is incorrect because it reverses the order of the SA node and AV node in the pathway. The SA node initiates the impulse, followed by the AV node, to allow for proper conduction through the heart. Option B (Purkinje fibers, SA node, AV node, Bundle of His) is incorrect as it starts with the Purkinje fibers, which are responsible for rapid conduction of the impulse to the myocardial cells, rather than the initial pacemaker (SA node). Option C (Bundle of His, Purkinje fibers, SA node, AV node) is incorrect because it starts with the Bundle of His, which is not the initial site of impulse generation in the heart. In an educational context, understanding the normal electrical pathway of the heart is essential for healthcare professionals to interpret ECG findings accurately, manage dysrhythmias effectively, and educate patients about their cardiac health. By grasping this concept, nurses can provide safe and competent care to clients with cardiac conditions.