ATI RN
Cardiovascular System Practice Questions Questions
Question 1 of 5
The client has been prescribed gemfibrozil. The nurse explains the function of the drug as what?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: It lowers triglyceride levels. Gemfibrozil is a fibric acid derivative that primarily works by decreasing triglyceride levels. It does not directly reduce cholesterol levels (A), destabilize cholesterol plaques (B), or prevent a recurrent MI (C). Lowering triglyceride levels helps reduce the risk of cardiovascular events such as heart attacks and strokes. Therefore, the explanation that gemfibrozil lowers triglyceride levels aligns with its mechanism of action and therapeutic effects.
Question 2 of 5
The client has a heart rate of 40 with electrical activity beginning at the AV node. What type of rhythm is the client having?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Junctional escape rhythm. A heart rate of 40 with electrical activity starting at the AV node indicates a slow rhythm originating from the junctional tissue. In this case, the AV node is acting as the escape pacemaker, generating electrical impulses to maintain the heart rate. The other choices are incorrect because: A: Normal sinus rhythm typically has a heart rate between 60-100 bpm. B: Atrial flutter presents with a rapid, regular atrial rate between 250-400 bpm. C: Atrial fibrillation shows chaotic and irregular electrical activity in the atria, not a slow heart rate.
Question 3 of 5
Which nursing intervention is likely to be most effective when assisting the patient with coronary artery disease to make appropriate dietary changes?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Help the patient modify favorite high-fat recipes by using monounsaturated oils. Rationale: 1. Modifying favorite recipes helps ensure compliance as the patient is more likely to enjoy the food. 2. Using monounsaturated oils is healthier than saturated fats, supporting cardiovascular health. 3. This intervention promotes gradual and sustainable dietary changes, increasing long-term success. Summary of Incorrect Choices: A. Eliminating all saturated fats and salt may be too restrictive and difficult to maintain. C. Focusing on risks alone may not motivate the patient effectively without practical guidance. D. Providing a list of foods may not address the patient's preferences or help them apply changes to their daily meals effectively.
Question 4 of 5
When titrating IV nitroglycerin for a patient with a myocardial infarction (MI), which action will the nurse take to evaluate the effectiveness of the drug?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Ask about chest pain. In evaluating the effectiveness of IV nitroglycerin for a patient with MI, asking about chest pain is crucial as nitroglycerin is primarily used to relieve chest pain associated with angina and MI. By assessing if the patient's chest pain has improved or resolved, the nurse can determine the drug's effectiveness. Monitoring heart rate (A) may not directly reflect the drug's effectiveness in relieving chest pain. Checking blood pressure (C) may be important but not the primary indicator of nitroglycerin efficacy. Observing for dysrhythmias (D) is important but not a direct measure of chest pain relief.
Question 5 of 5
A patient with hyperlipidemia has a new order for colesevelam (Welchol). Which nursing action is appropriate when scheduling this medication?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Have the patient take the colesevelam 1 hour before breakfast. This is because colesevelam should be taken with a meal and liquid. By taking it before breakfast, the patient ensures that the medication is ingested with adequate food and fluid to optimize its therapeutic effect. Option A is incorrect as there is no specific requirement to take colesevelam at bedtime. Option C is incorrect as there is no need to separate colesevelam from other medications by 2 hours. Option D is incorrect as there is no indication that colesevelam should be taken with aspirin.