ATI RN
ATI Med Surg Cardiovascular Test Bank Questions
Question 1 of 5
After receiving change-of-shift report about the following four patients on the cardiac care unit, which patient should the nurse assess first?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because the patient with unstable angina who has just returned after a PCI is at the highest risk for complications such as bleeding or re-occlusion of the coronary artery. Assessing this patient first allows the nurse to address any immediate post-procedure issues and prevent potential complications. Patients with pericarditis (choice A) and variant angina (choice B) are stable and can be assessed after the patient with unstable angina. The patient who had an MI 4 days ago and is anxious about discharge (choice C) can also be assessed after the patient with unstable angina, as anxiety can be addressed once the more acute situation is managed.
Question 2 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 improves cardiac contractility, leading to better cardiac output and improved exercise tolerance. In a client with dilated cardiomyopathy and pulmonary edema, an increase in activity tolerance indicates that the drug is effectively improving the heart's function. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as they do not directly relate to the drug's effectiveness in treating dilated cardiomyopathy and pulmonary edema. Absence of arrhythmias (Choice B) is important but not the primary assessment for dobutamine's effectiveness. Negative Homans' sign (Choice C) is unrelated to the drug's action. Blood pressure of 160/90 mm Hg (Choice D) is not a specific indicator of dobutamine's effectiveness in this context.
Question 3 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 in a supine position is recommended for infants with congenital heart defects to prevent overloading the heart by reducing the workload. This position promotes better oxygenation and cardiac output, as gravity assists in venous return. Placing the infant upright in an infant seat (choice A) may increase the workload on the heart due to increased venous return. Lying on the abdomen (choice C) may compromise breathing and reduce oxygenation. Sitting in high Fowler's position (choice D) may also increase the workload on the heart and compromise respiratory function.
Question 4 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 answer is A: "You are recovering well from the procedure and resting is a good idea." This response acknowledges the client's autonomy and respects their desire for rest after the procedure. It also recognizes the client's normal vital signs and absence of complications. Encouraging rest promotes healing and reduces the risk of complications. Choice B is incorrect because forcing the client to walk may not be appropriate immediately after the procedure, especially if the client is fatigued or not feeling well. Choice C is incorrect because the client is not thirsty and forcing fluids may lead to discomfort. It's important to respect the client's preferences and monitor for signs of dehydration. Choice D is incorrect because while leg exercises are important for circulation, the client's immediate need for rest should be prioritized. It is essential to balance activity with rest based on the client's condition.
Question 5 of 5
The nurse is caring for a 2-month-old child with transposition of the great vessels. Which of these interventions has highest priority?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Maintaining proper caloric intake. In a child with transposition of the great vessels, ensuring adequate nutrition is critical for growth and development. Without proper caloric intake, the child's health and recovery may be compromised. Providing comfort for parents (A) is important but not the highest priority. Reducing stressors for the infant (C) is valuable but not as crucial as ensuring proper nutrition. Documenting vital signs (D) is essential but does not directly address the immediate physiological needs of the child. Maintaining proper caloric intake should be the priority to support the child's overall well-being and aid in their recovery.