ATI RN
ATI Cardiovascular Test Bank Questions
Question 1 of 5
The client has a diastolic murmur. This means that the murmur is heard when in the cardiac cycle?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D (Between the S2 and the S1 beat) because a diastolic murmur occurs during the filling phase of the cardiac cycle, which is between the closure of the semilunar valves (S2) and the closure of the atrioventricular valves (S1). This murmur indicates abnormalities in the heart valves during ventricular relaxation. Choices A and C are incorrect because S1 and S2 beats correspond to systole, not diastole. Choice B is incorrect as it would indicate a continuous murmur throughout the cardiac cycle, which is not characteristic of a diastolic murmur.
Question 2 of 5
Which information from a patient helps the nurse confirm the previous diagnosis of chronic stable angina?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because relief of chest pain with nitroglycerin is a hallmark symptom of chronic stable angina. Nitroglycerin dilates blood vessels, improving blood flow to the heart, relieving chest pain. Choices A, B, and C do not specifically indicate typical angina symptoms like relief with nitroglycerin, which is crucial in confirming the diagnosis.
Question 3 of 5
After an acute myocardial infarction (AMI), a patient ambulates in the hospital hallway. When the nurse evaluates the patient’s response to the activity, which data would indicate that the exercise level should be decreased?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because an increase in heart rate from 66 to 98 beats/min after ambulation post-AMI indicates potential cardiac stress. This elevation could signify inadequate cardiac output or compromised heart function, prompting the need to decrease exercise intensity to prevent further strain on the heart. Choices A, C, and D do not directly reflect cardiac function and are within normal ranges post-AMI, so they would not be immediate indicators for reducing exercise level.
Question 4 of 5
A patient who has recently started taking pravastatin (Pravachol) and niacin reports several symptoms to the nurse. Which information is most important to communicate to the health care provider?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Generalized muscle aches and pains. This is the most important information to communicate because it could indicate a serious side effect known as rhabdomyolysis, a rare but severe condition that can be caused by statins (like pravastatin) and niacin. Rhabdomyolysis is characterized by muscle breakdown that can lead to kidney damage. It is crucial to monitor and address this symptom promptly. Choice B (Dizziness with rapid position changes) may be related to orthostatic hypotension, a common side effect of some medications but is not as urgent as potential rhabdomyolysis. Choice C (Nausea when taking the drugs before meals) is a common side effect of niacin and may be managed by adjusting the timing of medication administration. Choice D (Flushing and pruritus after taking the drugs) is a common side effect of niacin known as flushing and is generally not considered as serious as
Question 5 of 5
A patient who has chest pain is admitted to the emergency department (ED), and all of the following are ordered. Which one should the nurse arrange to be completed first?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Electrocardiogram (ECG). This should be arranged first because it provides immediate information on the patient's cardiac status, helping to determine if the chest pain is due to a heart-related issue like a myocardial infarction. A quick ECG can identify any acute changes in the heart's electrical activity. This is crucial for prompt intervention and treatment. Summary of other choices: A: Chest x-ray - While important for assessing lung and chest abnormalities, it does not provide immediate information on the patient's cardiac status. B: Troponin level - Useful for detecting myocardial damage, but results may take time to be available. Not as immediate as an ECG. D: Insertion of a peripheral IV - Important for administering medications and fluids, but not a priority over assessing the cardiac status in a patient with chest pain.