ATI RN
Cardiovascular System Exam Questions
Question 1 of 5
In cases of myocardial infarction leading to shock, which medication is appropriate to counteract shock?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Dopamine. In myocardial infarction leading to shock, dopamine is appropriate due to its positive inotropic effects, increasing cardiac output and blood pressure. Atropine is not indicated for shock in this context. Digoxin may be contraindicated in acute myocardial infarction. Adenosine is not used in managing shock.
Question 2 of 5
The client on spironolactone should avoid which of the following?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Foods high in potassium. Spironolactone is a potassium-sparing diuretic that can increase potassium levels in the body. Consuming foods high in potassium while taking spironolactone can lead to hyperkalemia, a serious condition characterized by high levels of potassium in the blood. The other choices (B: Foods high in sodium, C: Foods high in calcium, D: Foods high in chloride) are not directly contraindicated with spironolactone use. Sodium intake is typically restricted in patients taking diuretics, but it is not specifically related to spironolactone. Calcium and chloride levels are not significantly affected by spironolactone, so foods high in these minerals do not need to be avoided.
Question 3 of 5
The client on atorvastatin (Lipitor) should be advised to report which of the following symptoms?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Muscle pain. Atorvastatin can cause muscle pain as a side effect, which may progress to a serious condition called rhabdomyolysis. This requires immediate medical attention. Headache, nausea, and dizziness are less common side effects of atorvastatin and generally not as serious as muscle pain in this context. Reporting muscle pain promptly can help prevent complications and ensure appropriate management.
Question 4 of 5
When administering furosemide (Lasix) to a client, which lab value is most important to monitor?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Potassium. Furosemide is a loop diuretic that can cause potassium loss through increased urine output. Monitoring potassium levels is crucial to prevent hypokalemia, which can lead to serious cardiac arrhythmias. Sodium (B) and chloride (D) levels can also be affected by furosemide but are not as critical as potassium. Calcium (C) monitoring is not typically required when administering furosemide. By closely monitoring potassium levels, healthcare providers can prevent potential complications and ensure the safe administration of furosemide.
Question 5 of 5
The client is on a beta blocker for hypertension. What should the nurse monitor for?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Bradycardia. Beta blockers slow down the heart rate by blocking the effects of adrenaline. Therefore, the nurse should monitor for bradycardia as it is a common side effect of beta blockers. Tachycardia (B) is unlikely due to the medication's mechanism. Hypertension (C) is already being treated by the beta blocker. Respiratory distress (D) is not a typical side effect of beta blockers.