ATI RN
Health Assessment Vital Signs Quizlet Questions
Question 1 of 5
During a cardiac assessment, the nurse hears an S3 heart sound. What does this finding suggest?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The presence of an S3 heart sound typically indicates heart failure. This occurs due to rapid filling of the ventricles during early diastole, indicating volume overload. This sound is commonly heard in patients with heart failure, reflecting decreased cardiac function. In contrast, option A is incorrect as an S3 is not a normal finding in young adults. Option B, mitral valve stenosis, would present with an opening snap and a diastolic murmur, not an S3 sound. Option D, aortic regurgitation, is associated with a diastolic murmur and bounding pulses, not an S3 heart sound.
Question 2 of 5
A physical therapist instructs a patient on the proper use of a walker. Which sequence of steps is MOST appropriate for a patient with a partial weight-bearing status?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because when a patient has a partial weight-bearing status, they should first advance the walker to provide support, then advance the affected leg to ensure stability, and finally advance the unaffected leg to complete the step. This sequence ensures that the patient maintains balance and support throughout the movement. Choice B is incorrect because advancing the unaffected leg first may lead to instability. Choice C is incorrect as advancing the unaffected leg before the walker does not provide proper support. Choice D is incorrect as advancing the affected leg first without walker support can risk falls.
Question 3 of 5
During a neurological assessment, the nurse observes that the patient has difficulty with heel-to-toe walking. What does this finding suggest?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Cerebellar dysfunction. Heel-to-toe walking, also known as tandem gait, is a test of cerebellar function. The cerebellum is responsible for coordinating movement and balance, so difficulty with this task indicates dysfunction in the cerebellum. Cranial nerve deficit (A) typically presents with abnormalities in facial sensation or muscle weakness. Vestibular impairment (C) is associated with dizziness and balance issues, but not specifically heel-to-toe walking. Spinal cord injury (D) would manifest as motor or sensory deficits below the level of injury, not specifically affecting heel-to-toe walking.
Question 4 of 5
Which heart sound is most commonly associated with heart failure?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: S3. In heart failure, S3 heart sound is often heard due to rapid ventricular filling during early diastole. This sound is associated with volume overload and impaired left ventricular function. S1 and S2 are normal heart sounds, while S4 is associated with stiff ventricles and is commonly heard in conditions like hypertension or aortic stenosis. Therefore, S3 is the most commonly associated heart sound with heart failure due to its specific characteristics in this condition.
Question 5 of 5
During a cardiovascular assessment, the nurse notes a patient's apical pulse is irregular. What is the next action?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Rationale: C is the correct answer because comparing the apical and radial pulses helps determine the regularity of the heart rate. If they are not synchronized, it may indicate an underlying cardiac issue. A is incorrect as an irregular pulse is not normal. B is unnecessary without further assessment. D is incorrect as palpating carotid arteries for thrills does not address the irregularity of the apical pulse.