ATI RN
Vital Signs Assessment Nursing Questions
Question 1 of 5
Diplopia (double vision), which is present with one eye covered, can be caused by which of the following problems?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because diplopia with one eye covered suggests a problem with the affected eye itself, such as an irregularity in the cornea or lens causing refractive errors. Weakness of CN III (A) would cause eye movement issues, not diplopia with one eye covered. Weakness of CN IV (B) would result in vertical diplopia, not diplopia with one eye covered. A lesion of the brainstem (C) can lead to various oculomotor issues but wouldn't specifically cause diplopia with one eye covered.
Question 2 of 5
You are assessing a 59-year-old gas station owner for atherosclerosis in the lower extremities. In which of the following locations would the patient's pain make you concerned for this disease process?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Calf. Atherosclerosis in the lower extremities typically presents as intermittent claudication, which is characterized by pain, cramping, or fatigue in the calf muscles during physical activity. This occurs due to insufficient blood flow to the muscles affected by the narrowed arteries. Pain in the thigh (A), knee (B), or ankle (D) would not be as specific for atherosclerosis in the lower extremities, as the calf is the most common site for this condition.
Question 3 of 5
The nurse is preparing to use an otoscope for an examination. Which statement is true regarding the otoscope? The otoscope:
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because the otoscope is a medical device specifically designed to examine the ear canal and tympanic membrane. The otoscope has a light source and a magnifying lens that allows the healthcare provider to visualize these structures. Choice A is incorrect because the otoscope is not typically used to direct light onto the sinuses. Choice B is incorrect as the otoscope uses a long, narrow speculum to visualize the ear, not a short, broad speculum. Choice C is incorrect because the otoscope is used to examine the external ear canal and tympanic membrane, not the internal ear structures.
Question 4 of 5
Which of the following assessments is most indicative of adequate peripheral circulation?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Capillary refill time less than 2 seconds. This assessment is indicative of adequate peripheral circulation because it measures how quickly blood refills in the capillaries after they have been compressed. A capillary refill time of less than 2 seconds indicates normal circulation, as it demonstrates that blood is flowing efficiently to the extremities. Rationale: A: Pallor in the extremities indicates poor circulation and reduced blood flow, which is not indicative of adequate peripheral circulation. C: Cool skin temperature in the lower extremities suggests vasoconstriction and reduced blood flow, not adequate circulation. D: Diminished dorsalis pedis pulse indicates a weak or absent pulse in the foot, which is a sign of impaired circulation and not indicative of adequate peripheral circulation.
Question 5 of 5
The nurse is assessing the motor function of an unconscious client. The nurse would plan to use which of the following to test the client's peripheral response to pain?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Nail bed pressure. This is the appropriate method to test the client's peripheral response to pain in an unconscious state. Applying pressure to the nail bed can elicit a localized pain response, indicating intact peripheral nerve function. Rationale: 1. Nail bed pressure is a sensitive area that can evoke a pain response if the client has intact peripheral nerve function. 2. Sternal rub (A) is a sternal pressure technique used to arouse a client, not specifically to test peripheral response. 3. Pressure on the orbital rim (C) is not appropriate for testing peripheral response and can be harmful. 4. Squeezing the sternocleidomastoid muscle (D) is a method to assess cranial nerve XI function, not peripheral response to pain.