ATI RN
Cardiovascular System Test Bank Questions
Question 1 of 5
The client has a third degree AV block. The definitive treatment for this rhythm is what?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Pacemaker. A third-degree AV block is a complete block of electrical signals between the atria and ventricles, leading to a slow heart rate and potential hemodynamic instability. The definitive treatment is to implant a pacemaker to regulate the heart rate and ensure proper conduction. Adenosine (A) is used for supraventricular tachycardias, not AV blocks. Epinephrine (B) and dopamine (D) are used for treating bradycardia in emergency situations but are not definitive treatments for third-degree AV block.
Question 2 of 5
A patient recovering from a myocardial infarction (MI) develops chest pain on day 3 that increases when taking a deep breath and is relieved by leaning forward. Which action should the nurse take as focused follow-up on this symptom?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct action is to auscultate for a pericardial friction rub (Choice C). This is because the patient's symptoms of chest pain that worsens with deep breaths and improves with leaning forward suggest pericarditis, a common complication post-MI. A pericardial friction rub is a classic sign of pericarditis. Assessing the feet for pedal edema (Choice A) is not relevant to the presenting symptoms. Palpating radial pulses bilaterally (Choice B) and checking the heart monitor for dysrhythmias (Choice D) are not the priority in this situation.
Question 3 of 5
Which assessment finding by the nurse caring for a patient who has had coronary artery bypass grafting using a right radial artery graft is most important to communicate to the health care provider?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Pallor and weakness of the right hand. This finding could indicate impaired circulation to the right hand due to a complication related to the radial artery graft. Impaired circulation could lead to ischemia or even graft failure, which are serious concerns post coronary artery bypass grafting. This information is crucial to communicate to the health care provider for immediate intervention to prevent further complications. Incorrect choices: A: Complaints of incisional chest pain - While chest pain is important to monitor post-surgery, it is a common occurrence and may not indicate a serious complication. C: Fine crackles heard at both lung bases - This finding may suggest fluid overload or pulmonary issues, but it is not directly related to the radial artery graft or its complications. D: Redness on both sides of the sternal incision - Redness at the incision site can be a sign of infection, but it is not as urgent as the potential circulation issue in the right hand, which could
Question 4 of 5
To improve the physical activity level for a mildly obese 71-yr-old patient, which action should the nurse plan to take?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: To improve physical activity for a mildly obese 71-yr-old patient, the nurse should determine what physical activities the patient enjoys. This approach considers the patient's preferences, increasing the likelihood of adherence. Stressing weight loss (A) may not be motivating for everyone. Limiting exercise time (C) is not evidence-based. A warm-up (D) is important but not the initial step.
Question 5 of 5
A nurse is evaluating a client with left- sided heart failure. Which finding should the nurse expect to assess?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Dyspnea. Left-sided heart failure commonly presents with dyspnea due to fluid accumulation in the lungs (pulmonary edema). This occurs because the weakened left ventricle cannot efficiently pump blood to the body, causing fluid to back up into the lungs. Ascites (A) is more commonly associated with right-sided heart failure. Hepatomegaly (C) and jugular vein distention (D) are signs of right-sided heart failure, not left-sided heart failure. Dyspnea is a hallmark symptom of left-sided heart failure due to pulmonary congestion.