ATI RN
Pharmacology and the Nursing Process Test Bank Questions
Question 1 of 9
Decreasing level of consciousness is a symptom of which of the following physiological phenomena?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Increased ICP. Decreasing level of consciousness is a classic sign of increased intracranial pressure (ICP) due to the compression of the brain. As ICP rises, it impairs cerebral perfusion leading to altered mental status. Parasympathetic response (B) and sympathetic response (C) are related to autonomic nervous system functions, not consciousness. Increased cerebral blood flow (D) might lead to conditions like hyperemia but does not directly cause a decreased level of consciousness.
Question 2 of 9
Which statement by a nurse indicates a good understanding about the differences between data validation and data interpretation?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because data validation involves comparing data with other sources to ensure accuracy. This step ensures that the data is reliable and error-free. Option A is incorrect as data validation typically comes after data collection and cleaning, which precede data interpretation. Option B is incorrect as validation does not specifically focus on professional standards but rather on accuracy and consistency. Option D is incorrect as data interpretation involves analyzing and deriving insights from the validated data, not looking for patterns in professional standards.
Question 3 of 9
The nurse notes vigorous bubbling in the water-seal chamber of a chest-drainage system. Which of the following actions should the nurse take to correct the bubbling?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A. First, the nurse should assess the chest-drainage system and tubing for any air leaks. Air leaks can cause bubbling in the water-seal chamber, indicating a potential issue with the system's integrity. By examining the entire system, the nurse can identify and correct any leaks to ensure proper functioning of the chest-drainage system. Lowering the level of suction (choice B) may not address the underlying issue of air leaks. Doing nothing (choice C) is not appropriate as vigorous bubbling indicates a problem. Asking the patient to cough forcefully (choice D) is unrelated to addressing bubbling in the water-seal chamber.
Question 4 of 9
When administering a blood transfusion to a client with multiple traumatic injuries, the nurse monitors closely for evidence of a transfusion reaction. Shortly after the transfusion begins, the client complains of chest pain, nausea and itching. When urticarial, tachycardia, and hypotension develop, the nurse stops the transfusion and notifies the physician. The nurse suspects which type of hypersensitivity reaction?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Type I (immediate, anaphylactic) hypersensitivity reaction. In this scenario, the client experiences symptoms shortly after the transfusion starts, such as chest pain, nausea, itching, urticaria, tachycardia, and hypotension, which are indicative of an immediate hypersensitivity reaction. Type I reactions involve the release of histamine and other inflammatory mediators from mast cells and basophils, leading to the symptoms described. The nurse's prompt action of stopping the transfusion and notifying the physician aligns with managing this type of reaction. Incorrect choices: B: Type II (cytolytic, cytotoxic) hypersensitivity reaction - This type of reaction involves antibodies targeting specific cells, leading to their destruction. The symptoms described in the scenario are not consistent with this type of reaction. C: Type III (immune complex) hypersensitivity reaction - This type of reaction involves the formation of immune complexes that deposit in tissues, causing
Question 5 of 9
An adult is brought in by ambulance after a motor vehicle accident. He is unconscious, on a backboard with his neck immobilized. He is bleeding profusely from a large gash on his right thigh. What is the first action the nurse should take?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Check his airway. Ensuring a patent airway is the priority in trauma care to maintain oxygenation and ventilation. With the patient unconscious and bleeding profusely, airway obstruction or compromise is a critical concern. By checking the airway first, the nurse can quickly assess and address any immediate threats to the patient's breathing. Stopping the bleeding (choice A) can be addressed once the airway is secured. Taking vital signs (choice B) and finding out what happened from eyewitnesses (choice D) can be important but are secondary to ensuring the patient's airway is clear and unobstructed.
Question 6 of 9
To supplement a diet with foods high in potassium, the nurse should recommend the addition of:
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Fruits such as bananas. Bananas are high in potassium, which is essential for various bodily functions like muscle contractions and maintaining fluid balance. Fruits are a natural source of potassium and are easily incorporated into the diet. Milk and yogurt (B) are good sources of calcium, not potassium. Green leafy vegetables (C) are nutritious but may not provide as much potassium as fruits. Nuts and legumes (D) are good sources of protein and healthy fats but are not as rich in potassium as fruits like bananas.
Question 7 of 9
A man‘s blood type is AB and he requires a blood transfusion. To prevent complications of blood incompatibilities, which blood type may the client receive?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because individuals with AB blood type are considered universal recipients, meaning they can receive blood from any blood type without risking complications due to incompatibility. This is because their blood cells have both A and B antigens and do not produce antibodies against either type. Therefore, the client can safely receive blood from types A, B, AB, or O without adverse reactions. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because they limit the options for blood transfusion based on the client's AB blood type, which is not necessary given the unique nature of AB blood as universal recipients.
Question 8 of 9
Which of the following groups of terms best describes a nurse-initiated intervention?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because nurse-initiated interventions involve autonomous actions based on clinical judgment to achieve client outcomes. Nurses assess, plan, and implement care independently. Choice A involves physician orders, not nurse-initiated actions. Choice C relates to medical treatment, not nursing interventions. Choice D focuses on collaboration with other providers, not solely nurse-initiated actions. In summary, only choice B aligns with the independent and outcome-focused nature of nurse-initiated interventions.
Question 9 of 9
Which of the following patients should the nurse monitors because of increased risk for surgical complications?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because the patient's Body Mass Index (BMI) indicates obesity, putting them at higher risk for surgical complications. Obesity is associated with increased risks of infections, delayed wound healing, respiratory issues, and cardiovascular problems post-surgery. Monitoring this patient closely is crucial. Choice A is less likely to have increased surgical complications due to age and condition. Choice C, a 12-year-old, is less likely to have significant surgical complications compared to adults. Choice D, a 17-year-old with gallstones, may have risks but the BMI of the patient in choice B indicates a higher risk.