ATI RN
Respiratory System Questions and Answers PDF Questions
Question 1 of 5
Although carbon dioxide is normally carried by hemoglobin, the fact that carbon monoxide reduces hemoglobin's oxygen-carrying capacity would indicate that
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because carbon monoxide competes with oxygen for the same binding sites on hemoglobin, leading to reduced oxygen-carrying capacity. This is known as competitive inhibition. Other choices are incorrect because different hemoglobins do not carry different gases (A), binding of gases is not directed by enzymes in this context (C), and carbon dioxide is a normal gas in the body (D).
Question 2 of 5
Oxygen and carbon dioxide concentration in the alveolar air is respectively
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D (13.1% oxygen and 5% carbon dioxide). In the alveolar air, the oxygen concentration is around 13.1%, which is lower than atmospheric air (21%) due to gas exchange in the lungs. The carbon dioxide concentration in alveolar air is around 5%, higher than atmospheric air (0.04%). Choices A, B, and C have oxygen concentrations higher than what is found in alveolar air, making them incorrect. Choice B also has a carbon dioxide concentration higher than what is typically found in alveolar air, making it incorrect.
Question 3 of 5
A nurse assesses a client after an open lung biopsy. Which assessment finding is matched with the correct intervention?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C. Reduced breath sounds after an open lung biopsy could indicate a potential complication such as pneumothorax, requiring immediate attention. Calling the primary health care provider allows for timely assessment and intervention. Choice A is incorrect because dizziness alone may not warrant calling the Rapid Response Team without further assessment. Choice B is incorrect as a heart rate of 55 beats/min may not necessarily indicate a need to withhold pain medication without considering other factors. Choice D is incorrect as a respiratory rate of 18 breaths/min does not necessarily mean the oxygen flow rate should be decreased without further assessment.
Question 4 of 5
The nurse assesses the client using the device pictured below to deliver 50% O2: The nurse finds that the mask fits snugly the skin under the mask and straps is intact and the flow rate of the oxygen is 3 L/min. What action by the nurse is best?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Immediately increase the flow rate. A flow rate of 3 L/min is inadequate to deliver 50% O2 through a mask. Increasing the flow rate will ensure the client receives the prescribed oxygen concentration. Incorrect choices: A: Assess the client's oxygen saturation - This is not the priority as the oxygen delivery is suboptimal. B: Document these findings in the chart - Documentation is important but addressing the oxygen delivery issue is more critical. D: Turn the flow rate down to 2 L/min - This would further reduce the oxygen concentration, which is not appropriate in this case.
Question 5 of 5
An older adult is brought to the emergency department by a family member who reports a moderate change in mental status and mild cough. The client is afebrile. The primary health care provider orders a chest x-ray. The family member questions why this is needed since the symptoms seem so vague. What response by the nurse is best?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because older adults often present with atypical or vague symptoms when they have an underlying infection, including pneumonia. It is crucial to assess for pneumonia in older adults promptly because they may not exhibit classic signs like fever. An x-ray is essential to confirm or rule out pneumonia as it allows for visualization of lung abnormalities. Choice A is incorrect because not all older adults with vague symptoms automatically have pneumonia, and ordering a chest x-ray is based on clinical judgment. Choice C is incorrect as the timing of the x-ray in relation to laboratory work is not the primary reason for ordering it. Choice D is incorrect because the x-ray is specifically to assess for pneumonia, not for general infection sources.