ATI RN
Vital Signs Physical Assessment Techniques Questions
Question 1 of 5
During an interview, a parent of a hospitalized child is sitting in an open position. As the interviewer begins to discuss his son's treatment, however, he suddenly crosses his arms against his chest and crosses his legs. This changed posture would suggest that the parent is:
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Uncomfortable talking about his son's treatment. The sudden change in posture to a closed position (crossed arms and legs) signifies defensiveness or discomfort, possibly indicating emotional distress or difficulty discussing the topic. This nonverbal cue suggests a shift from openness to a protective stance, reflecting a potential reluctance or unease with the conversation. Choices A and B are incorrect as the change in posture was not simply for comfort or adjustment. Choice C is incorrect as there is no direct indication of tiredness or need for a break.
Question 2 of 5
The nurse is preparing to measure the length, weight, chest, and head circumference of a 6-month-old infant. Which measurement technique is correct?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct technique for measuring chest circumference in infants is at the nipple line, as this is the standard anatomical landmark for consistency. Measuring at this point ensures accurate and reliable data for growth monitoring. Measuring the length of an infant with a tape measure (choice A) is correct for assessing height. Weighing the infant on an electronic standing scale (choice B) is appropriate for measuring weight. Measuring head circumference by wrapping the tape measure over the nose and cheekbones (choice D) is incorrect, as it can lead to inaccurate measurements.
Question 3 of 5
A student is late for his appointment and has rushed across campus to the health clinic. The nurse should:
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because allowing the student 5 minutes to relax and rest before checking his vital signs is important for obtaining accurate readings. When someone rushes across campus, their heart rate and blood pressure are likely elevated, which can lead to inaccurate readings if taken immediately. Allowing the student to relax will help stabilize their vital signs and provide a more accurate baseline measurement. Choice B is incorrect because checking blood pressure in both arms expecting a difference due to recent exercise is not necessary in this scenario. Choice C is incorrect as immediate monitoring may not provide accurate readings due to the student's rushed state. Choice D is incorrect as checking blood pressure in the supine position is not necessary and may not accurately reflect the student's true vital signs in this situation.
Question 4 of 5
During an examination, the nurse notices that a female patient has a round "moon" face, central trunk obesity, and a cervical hump. Her skin is fragile with bruises. The nurse determines that the patient has which condition?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Cushing syndrome. This condition is characterized by the symptoms described - "moon" face, central trunk obesity, cervical hump, fragile skin with bruises - due to excessive cortisol production. Marfan syndrome (A) is a genetic disorder affecting connective tissue, leading to tall stature and long limbs. Gigantism (B) is caused by excess growth hormone before puberty, resulting in abnormal growth. Acromegaly (D) is similar to gigantism but occurs after growth plates have closed, causing enlargement of bones and tissues. The symptoms described in the question are indicative of Cushing syndrome, thus making it the correct answer.
Question 5 of 5
A 42-year-old woman complains that she has noticed several small, slightly raised, bright red dots on her chest. On examination, the nurse expects that the spots are probably:
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Senile angiomas. Senile angiomas are common benign vascular growths that appear as small, bright red dots on the skin, often found in older individuals. In this case, the patient is a 42-year-old woman, which fits the age range for senile angiomas. Anasarca (A) is generalized edema, not related to the described skin findings. Scleroderma (B) is a connective tissue disorder characterized by skin thickening and not typically presenting as bright red dots. Latent myeloma (D) is a type of blood cancer and not associated with the described skin lesions.