ATI RN
ANCC Cardiovascular Certification Practice Questions Questions
Question 1 of 5
Cardiogenic shock refers to inadequate body perfusion as a result of
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Cardiogenic shock is a critical condition in which the heart fails to pump effectively, leading to inadequate perfusion of the body's organs and tissues. Therefore, the correct answer is C) ineffective myocardial pumping. In cardiogenic shock, the heart's inability to adequately pump blood results in decreased cardiac output and systemic hypoperfusion. Option A) hypoxemia refers to low oxygen levels in the blood, which can contribute to tissue hypoperfusion but is not the primary cause of cardiogenic shock. Option B) hypercarbia is elevated carbon dioxide levels in the blood, which is not a defining characteristic of cardiogenic shock. Option D) acidosis is a condition of increased acidity in the blood, which can occur as a result of inadequate tissue perfusion in cardiogenic shock but is not the direct cause of the condition. Educationally, understanding the underlying pathophysiology of cardiogenic shock is crucial for healthcare providers, especially those specializing in cardiovascular care. Recognizing the signs and symptoms of cardiogenic shock and addressing the inadequate myocardial pumping promptly is essential to improve patient outcomes and prevent complications. This knowledge is vital for nurses, nurse practitioners, and other healthcare professionals working in cardiology settings.
Question 2 of 5
When teaching Joan about her low-sodium diet, the nurse should include information about
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: In educating Joan about her low-sodium diet, including information about developing a routine is crucial. This is because adherence to a low-sodium diet requires consistency and planning, which can be facilitated by establishing a routine for meal preparation, grocery shopping, and dining out. By incorporating this information, Joan will be better equipped to successfully manage her sodium intake on a day-to-day basis. Option A, important exercise routines, is incorrect as it does not directly relate to managing a low-sodium diet. While exercise is important for overall cardiovascular health, it is not the primary focus when discussing dietary modifications for sodium reduction. Option B, using baking soda in cooking, is incorrect as baking soda is actually high in sodium and would contradict the goal of reducing sodium intake. It is important to educate patients that baking soda is not a suitable substitute for salt in a low-sodium diet. Option C, purchasing special dietetic foods, is incorrect as many special dietetic foods marketed as low-sodium can still contain significant amounts of sodium. It is more effective to teach individuals how to read food labels and prepare meals using fresh, whole ingredients to control their sodium intake. In an educational context, it is essential to emphasize the practical aspects of managing a low-sodium diet to empower patients like Joan to make sustainable lifestyle changes. By providing specific guidance on developing a routine, nurses can help patients navigate the complexities of dietary modifications and improve their overall cardiovascular health outcomes.
Question 3 of 5
Which order should the nurse question?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: The addition of a loop diuretic with digoxin. Loop diuretics can cause hypokalemia, which can increase the risk of digoxin toxicity due to potassium depletion. Therefore, the nurse should question this order to prevent potential harm to the patient. Incorrect choices: B: The addition of a beta blocker with digoxin - Beta blockers can also contribute to bradycardia and further increase the risk of digoxin toxicity. C: A digoxin dose of 0.125 mg per day - This dose is within the recommended range for digoxin and does not pose an immediate concern. D: The addition of an ACE inhibitor with digoxin - ACE inhibitors do not directly interact with digoxin, and their combination is commonly used in managing heart failure.
Question 4 of 5
The client is being given a cardio-selective beta blocker because of which possible reasons? Select all that apply.
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Dysrhythmias. Cardio-selective beta blockers are commonly prescribed to treat dysrhythmias by slowing down the heart rate and reducing the frequency of irregular heartbeats. This helps in controlling and managing abnormal heart rhythms effectively. Hypotension (A) is not a typical reason to prescribe cardio-selective beta blockers, as these medications can further lower blood pressure, exacerbating hypotension. Hypertension (B) is usually treated with non-selective beta blockers, as they have a broader effect on blood vessels. Cardiac arrest (D) is a life-threatening emergency that requires immediate intervention such as CPR and defibrillation, not beta blockers.
Question 5 of 5
The client is taking Flecainide for arrhythmias. What type of anti- arrhythmic medication is this:
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Class IC. Flecainide belongs to Class IC anti-arrhythmic medications, which work by blocking sodium channels in the heart, slowing down the conduction of electrical impulses. This helps stabilize the heart's rhythm. Class IB medications (Choice A) work by blocking sodium channels as well, but they do not slow conduction as much as Class IC. Class II medications (Choice B) are beta blockers and do not directly affect sodium channels. Choice C is a duplicate of Choice A, which is incorrect.