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. In a third degree AV block, there is a complete block in the electrical conduction between the atria and ventricles, leading to a significant decrease in heart rate. The definitive treatment for this condition is the placement of a pacemaker to ensure proper coordination of atrial and ventricular contractions. Adenosine (A) is used for certain types of supraventricular tachycardia, not for AV blocks. Epinephrine (B) is used in cardiac arrest situations to increase heart rate and blood pressure, not for AV blocks. Dopamine (D) is a medication used to increase blood pressure in hypotensive states, not for AV blocks.
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 symptom of chest pain worsening with deep breaths and relieved by leaning forward is indicative of pericarditis, a common complication post-MI. Auscultating for a pericardial friction rub can help confirm this diagnosis. Assessing the feet for pedal edema (Choice A) is more relevant for heart failure. Palpating radial pulses (Choice B) is not directly related to the symptom described. Checking the heart monitor for dysrhythmias (Choice D) may not provide immediate insight into the specific symptom being experienced.
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 suggests potential compromise of blood flow to the right radial artery graft, which is crucial for the patient's cardiac function. Pallor and weakness may indicate reduced perfusion, possibly due to graft occlusion or other complications. This warrants immediate attention from the healthcare provider to prevent further complications. Incorrect choices: A: Complaints of incisional chest pain - This is common post-surgery and may not indicate acute issues with the graft. C: Fine crackles heard at both lung bases - This could indicate a respiratory issue, but it is not directly related to the radial artery graft. D: Redness on both sides of the sternal incision - While redness could suggest infection, it is not as urgent as compromised blood flow to the graft, which requires immediate intervention.
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: The correct answer is B: Determine what kind of physical activities the patient usually enjoys. Rationale: 1. By determining the patient's preferred physical activities, the nurse can tailor an exercise plan that the patient is more likely to adhere to. 2. Enjoyable activities increase motivation and compliance, leading to sustained physical activity levels. 3. Personalized approach considers the patient's interests and abilities, promoting a successful and sustainable exercise routine. Summary of Incorrect Choices: A. Stressing weight loss may be discouraging and overshadow the importance of overall health benefits of exercise. C. Setting a strict time limit may not be suitable for all older adults and can hinder individualized exercise plans. D. While warming up is important, it is not the most crucial initial step in developing a personalized exercise plan.
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 typically results in the accumulation of fluid in the lungs, leading to difficulty breathing or dyspnea. This is due to the impaired ability of the left side of the heart to pump blood efficiently, causing fluid backup into the lungs. Ascites (choice A) is more commonly associated with right-sided heart failure. Hepatomegaly (choice C) and jugular vein distention (choice D) are also more indicative of right-sided heart failure. Therefore, based on the pathophysiology of left-sided heart failure, dyspnea is the expected finding.