ATI RN
ATI Vital Signs Assessment Questions
Question 1 of 5
In which of the following areas could microwave diathermy be used?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Muscle with spasm. Microwave diathermy is a form of deep heat therapy that can help relax muscle spasms by increasing blood flow and promoting healing in the affected area. This treatment is particularly effective in treating muscle-related conditions such as muscle spasms, strains, and sprains. Edematous tissue (A) would be better treated with other modalities like compression and elevation. Fluid-filled cavities (B) are not suitable for microwave diathermy as it can cause uneven heating and potential harm. Reproductive organs (C) are sensitive structures and should not be exposed to microwave diathermy.
Question 2 of 5
A college student presents with a sore throat, fever, and fatigue for several days. You notice exudates on her enlarged tonsils. You do a careful lymphatic examination and notice some scattered small, mobile lymph nodes just behind her sternocleidomastoid muscles bilaterally. What group of nodes is this?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Posterior cervical nodes. These nodes are located just behind the sternocleidomastoid muscles, which is consistent with the student's presentation of sore throat and enlarged tonsils. The posterior cervical nodes drain the posterior neck, scalp, and parts of the head and neck region, making them likely to be involved in an infection of the tonsils. The other choices are incorrect because: A: Submandibular nodes are located under the mandible, B: Tonsillar nodes are not a distinct group of lymph nodes, and C: Occipital nodes are located at the back of the head.
Question 3 of 5
A 57-year-old maintenance worker comes to your office for evaluation of pain in his legs. He has smoked two packs per day since the age of 16, but he is otherwise healthy. You are concerned that he may have peripheral vascular disease. Which of the following is part of common or concerning symptoms for the peripheral vascular system?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Intermittent claudication. Intermittent claudication is a classic symptom of peripheral vascular disease, characterized by cramping leg pain that occurs with exertion and improves with rest. This is due to inadequate blood flow to the muscles during activity. In this case, the patient's history of smoking increases his risk for peripheral vascular disease. Choice B, chest pressure with exertion, is more indicative of cardiac issues like angina. Choice C, shortness of breath, is more associated with respiratory or cardiac conditions like heart failure. Choice D, knee pain, is not typically related to peripheral vascular disease but could be due to musculoskeletal issues.
Question 4 of 5
Which of these patients is most appropriate for the intensive care unit (ICU) charge nurse to assign to an RN who has floated from the medical unit?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because a patient with viral meningitis requiring IV antibiotics may have rapidly changing conditions that necessitate close monitoring and prompt intervention. The floated RN from the medical unit may have experience managing infectious diseases and IV medications. Choice B: The 23-year-old with a recent craniotomy is stable post-surgery and may not require immediate ICU-level care. Choice C: The 30-year-old with an ICP monitor after a head injury a week ago is likely stable and may not need the specialized care of the ICU. Choice D: The 61-year-old with increased ICP and hyperventilation therapy requires specialized care and expertise in managing neurocritical care, which the floated RN may not have.
Question 5 of 5
A client has clear fluid leaking from the nose following a basilar skull fracture. The nurse assesses that this is cerebrospinal fluid if the fluid:
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) typically separates into concentric rings when placed on a white pad due to its high protein content. This phenomenon is known as the "halo sign." Additionally, CSF should test positive for glucose as it is a clear, colorless fluid that contains glucose. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because CSF is clear and tests positive for glucose, not negative. It is not typically bloody in appearance with a pH of 6, clumping together with a pH of 7, or showing any other characteristics mentioned in the incorrect choices.