During a clinical examination, you observe that a patient's ears are positioned significantly below the level of the lateral eye canthi. What might this indicate about the patient's head and neck anatomy?

Questions 81

ATI RN

ATI RN Test Bank

jarvis physical examination and health assessment test bank Questions

Question 1 of 5

During a clinical examination, you observe that a patient's ears are positioned significantly below the level of the lateral eye canthi. What might this indicate about the patient's head and neck anatomy?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Potential congenital deformity. This observation suggests a condition called "low-set ears," which can be a sign of certain congenital anomalies affecting the development of the head and neck structures during fetal growth. It is important to investigate further to rule out any associated syndromes or genetic disorders. Choice A: Normal anatomical variation is incorrect because this positioning is not commonly considered a normal variation in the general population. Choice C: Increased risk of hearing loss is incorrect as the position of the ears alone does not directly correlate with hearing loss. Choice D: No clinical significance is incorrect because this observation warrants further evaluation to assess for potential underlying issues.

Question 2 of 5

A patient with a history of chronic smoking presents with a persistent cough and weight loss. What is the most likely diagnosis?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Lung cancer. The patient's symptoms of chronic smoking, persistent cough, and weight loss are concerning for malignancy. Lung cancer is a common consequence of long-term smoking and can present with these symptoms. Chronic bronchitis (A) typically presents with cough and mucus production but not necessarily weight loss. Emphysema (C) is characterized by shortness of breath and is less likely to cause weight loss. Asthma (D) usually presents with wheezing and shortness of breath, not typically weight loss.

Question 3 of 5

A 78-year-old male is being treated for hypertension. The nurse knows that the most appropriate first-line therapy in older adults is:

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Diuretics. In older adults, diuretics are considered the most appropriate first-line therapy for hypertension due to their effectiveness in reducing blood pressure and preventing complications such as heart failure. Diuretics are well-tolerated, have a long history of use, and are cost-effective. They are especially beneficial in older adults with volume overload or fluid retention. Beta-blockers (B) may be less effective in older adults and can have more side effects. ACE inhibitors (C) are commonly used but may pose risks of hyperkalemia and renal dysfunction in older adults. Calcium channel blockers (D) are effective but may increase the risk of falls and fractures in older adults.

Question 4 of 5

A 79-year-old client is admitted with pneumonia. Which symptom would most likely indicate the need for further evaluation?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Chest pain and pleuritic breathing. This indicates possible complications like pleurisy or pleural effusion, requiring further evaluation. A: Persistent cough with sputum production is common in pneumonia. C: Shortness of breath is a typical symptom of pneumonia. D: Fever and chills are also common in pneumonia. However, chest pain and pleuritic breathing are more indicative of potential complications that may require immediate attention.

Question 5 of 5

The nurse is caring for an older adult who is having difficulty with swallowing. Which intervention should the nurse implement to prevent aspiration?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Provide thickened liquids and soft foods. This intervention helps prevent aspiration by reducing the risk of food or liquids entering the airway. Thickened liquids are easier to control while swallowing, decreasing the chance of aspiration. Soft foods are also easier to chew and swallow, further reducing the risk. Choice A is incorrect because eating quickly can increase the risk of choking and aspiration. Choice C is incorrect as lying down after meals can actually increase the risk of aspiration. Choice D is incorrect as large meals can increase the likelihood of swallowing difficulties and aspiration.

Access More Questions!

ATI RN Basic


$89/ 30 days

ATI RN Premium


$150/ 90 days

Similar Questions