ATI RN
ANCC Cardiovascular Certification Practice Questions Questions
Question 1 of 5
The client has paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia. What are some causes of this? Select all that apply.
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Stimulants. Paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia (PSVT) is often caused by triggers like caffeine, nicotine, or illegal drugs that stimulate the heart's electrical system. Stress (A) can exacerbate PSVT but not directly cause it. Hypotension (B) and hypertension (D) are related to blood pressure and not primary causes of PSVT.
Question 2 of 5
The nurse suspects that the patient with stable angina is experiencing a side effect of the prescribed drug metoprolol (Lopressor) if the
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because low blood pressure (90/54 mm Hg) is a known side effect of metoprolol. Metoprolol is a beta-blocker that can cause hypotension. Restlessness, agitation, and anxiety are not typical side effects of metoprolol. A normal sinus rhythm on the heart monitor does not indicate a side effect of metoprolol. Low blood pressure is a common side effect of metoprolol due to its beta-blocking effects on the heart and blood vessels, leading to decreased cardiac output and vasodilation.
Question 3 of 5
A few days after experiencing a myocardial infarction (MI) and successful percutaneous coronary intervention, the patient states, “It was just a little chest pain. As soon as I get out of here, I’m going for my vacation as planned.” Which reply would be most appropriate for the nurse to make?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Rationale: Choice C is correct because it addresses the patient's perception and gently introduces the idea that plans may need to change post-MI. It acknowledges the patient's experience while subtly hinting at the importance of considering adjustments for health reasons. Summary of Incorrect Choices: A: This choice focuses on the cause of chest pain, which is not the immediate concern post-MI. B: While discussing vacation plans is relevant, it does not address the patient's potentially unrealistic expectations. D: While recovery time is important, stating a specific timeline may not be necessary or applicable to every patient's situation.
Question 4 of 5
A patient admitted to the coronary care unit (CCU) with an ST-segment-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) is restless and anxious. The blood pressure is 86/40 mm Hg, and heart rate is 132 beats/min. Based on this information, which nursing diagnosis is a priority for the patient?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Decreased cardiac output related to cardiogenic shock. In a patient with STEMI, the low blood pressure (86/40 mm Hg) and high heart rate (132 beats/min) indicate poor cardiac output. Cardiogenic shock is a life-threatening condition that occurs due to decreased cardiac output. Restlessness and anxiety can be signs of inadequate tissue perfusion in cardiogenic shock. Addressing decreased cardiac output is crucial to prevent further deterioration. A: Acute pain is a common symptom in STEMI but not the priority when the patient is in cardiogenic shock. B: Anxiety is a valid concern, but the primary focus should be on addressing the physiological instability caused by decreased cardiac output. C: Stress overload can be a contributing factor, but the immediate priority is managing the cardiogenic shock to stabilize the patient's condition.
Question 5 of 5
Which lifestyle changes should a client diagnosed with coronary artery disease consider?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D, as all choices are important lifestyle changes for a client with coronary artery disease. Smoking cessation reduces the risk of heart disease, exercise helps improve heart health, and weight reduction can lower the strain on the heart. Each choice addresses a different aspect of managing coronary artery disease, making all of them essential for overall well-being. Therefore, it is crucial for the client to adopt all of these changes to effectively manage their condition and reduce the risk of complications.