ATI RN
Exam Questions on Respiratory System Questions
Question 1 of 5
Spirometry can measure all except
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Spirometry measures lung volumes and capacities. Functional Residual Capacity (FRC) is the volume of air left in the lungs after a normal exhalation, which cannot be directly measured by spirometry. Therefore, C is correct. IC (Inspiratory Capacity) is the maximum volume of air that can be inhaled after a normal exhalation, ERV (Expiratory Reserve Volume) is the additional volume of air that can be exhaled after a normal exhalation, and Vital Capacity is the total volume of air that can be exhaled after a maximum inhalation, all of which can be measured using spirometry.
Question 2 of 5
A male patient is admitted to the healthcare facility for treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Which nursing diagnosis is most important for this patient?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Impaired gas exchange related to airflow obstruction. This is the most important nursing diagnosis for a patient with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease because impaired gas exchange directly impacts the patient's ability to breathe and obtain oxygen. Addressing this issue is crucial in managing the patient's condition and preventing further complications. A: Activity intolerance related to fatigue may be a concern for the patient, but it is secondary to the primary issue of impaired gas exchange. B: Anxiety related to actual threat to health status is important to address, but it is not the most critical nursing diagnosis for this patient. C: Risk for infection related to retained secretions is a valid concern, but it is not as immediate and directly life-threatening as impaired gas exchange in a patient with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
Question 3 of 5
A nurse is suctioning fluids from a female client through an endotracheal tube. During the suctioning procedure, the nurse notes on the monitor that the heart rate is decreasing. Which if the following is the appropriate nursing intervention?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Stop the procedure and reoxygenate the client. When the nurse notes a decreasing heart rate during suctioning, it could indicate that the client is experiencing hypoxia. Stopping the procedure and providing additional oxygenation is crucial to prevent further complications such as bradycardia or cardiac arrest. Continuing to suction (choice A) can worsen the hypoxia. Notifying the physician immediately (choice B) may cause a delay in addressing the immediate issue. Limiting suction to 15 seconds (choice D) does not address the primary concern of hypoxia and decreasing heart rate.
Question 4 of 5
A 17-year-old male is admitted following an automobile accident. He is very anxious, dyspneic, and in severe pain. The left chest wall moves in during inspiration and balloons out when he exhales. The nurse understands these symptoms are most suggestive of?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Flail chest. Flail chest is characterized by paradoxical movement of a segment of the chest wall due to multiple rib fractures. In this case, the left chest wall moving in during inspiration and out during expiration indicates this paradoxical movement. This leads to ineffective breathing, causing dyspnea and anxiety. Hemothorax (A) is accumulation of blood in the pleural cavity, not associated with chest wall movement. Atelectasis (C) is collapse of lung tissue, not associated with chest wall movement. Pleural effusion (D) is accumulation of fluid in the pleural space, also not associated with paradoxical chest wall movement.
Question 5 of 5
A 22-year-old female client is experiencing a new-onset asthmatic attack. Which position is best for this client?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: High Fowler's position. This position promotes optimal lung expansion by maximizing chest expansion and allowing for improved airflow. The upright position reduces pressure on the diaphragm, making it easier for the client to breathe. Left and right side-lying positions may restrict lung expansion and worsen breathing difficulties. The supine position with pillows under each arm does not provide the same benefits as the High Fowler's position in terms of respiratory support. Overall, High Fowler's is the most effective position for a client experiencing an asthmatic attack as it facilitates better oxygenation and ventilation.