ATI RN
Certified Pediatric Nurse Exam Practice Questions Questions
Question 1 of 5
If a patient has severe hyperkalemia, it is possible to administer calcium gluconate intravenously to:
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Calcium gluconate is administered intravenously in the setting of severe hyperkalemia to antagonize the effects of potassium on the heart. Hyperkalemia can lead to dangerous cardiac arrhythmias due to the changes in membrane potential of cardiac cells caused by increased extracellular potassium levels. Administration of calcium gluconate helps stabilize the cardiac cell membrane potential, protecting against the risk of life-threatening arrhythmias. It doesn't provide an immediate decrease in serum potassium levels (Choice A) or prevent transient renal failure (TRF) (Choice B). Therefore, the correct answer is D, as calcium gluconate primarily acts to counteract the effects of hyperkalemia on the heart.
Question 2 of 5
For which of the ff conditions would the use of salt tablets be considered?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Salt tablets should be considered for mild deficits of serum sodium. Salt tablets contain sodium chloride, which helps increase the sodium levels in the body. In cases of mild deficits of serum sodium, also known as hyponatremia, salt tablets can help replenish the sodium levels and correct the electrolyte imbalance. However, for severe deficits of serum magnesium, potassium, or calcium, other specific electrolyte replacement therapies are usually preferred over salt tablets. It is important to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment of electrolyte imbalances.
Question 3 of 5
Why should the nurse closely monitor a client to ensure that the venous access device remains in the vein during a transfusion?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Keeping the venous access device securely in the vein during a transfusion is important to minimize the risk of localized edema embolism. If the device dislodges and infiltrates into surrounding tissues, it can lead to localized swelling, pain, and potential complications such as tissue damage. Monitoring ensures proper placement and function of the device, reducing the risk of complications related to dislodgment.
Question 4 of 5
The nurse teaches a patient how to live with a new tracheostomy. Which of the ff. instructions is appropriate?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Option C, "Be sure to protect your tracheostomy from pollutants such as powders, hair and chemicals," is the most appropriate instruction for a patient with a new tracheostomy. It is important to keep the tracheostomy site clean and free from any potential irritants or contaminants that could cause infection or complications. Powders, hair, and chemicals can lead to irritation or clogging of the tracheostomy tube, so it is crucial for the patient to be mindful of avoiding such pollutants near the tracheostomy site.
Question 5 of 5
How can the nurse help monitor effectiveness of therapy for the patient with a pneumothorax and chest-drainage system?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The nurse can help monitor the effectiveness of therapy for a patient with a pneumothorax and chest drainage system by auscultating lung sounds. Auscultation can provide information about the air movement within the lungs and any changes in lung sounds, such as decreased or absent breath sounds on the affected side, which may indicate improvement or deterioration in the patient's condition. By regularly assessing lung sounds, the nurse can track the progress of the therapy and make informed decisions about the patient's care and treatment plan. Palpating for crepitus, documenting sputum characteristics, and monitoring suction levels are important aspects of care but are not specifically focused on assessing the effectiveness of therapy for a pneumothorax.