ATI RN
Cardiovascular Test Bank Questions Questions
Question 1 of 5
The client has several PVCs in a row on a standard EKG. What is this rhythm called?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Ventricular tachycardia. In this scenario, the client experiencing several PVCs in a row indicates a rapid heart rate originating from the ventricles. Ventricular tachycardia is characterized by three or more consecutive PVCs at a rate exceeding 100 beats per minute. It is a serious arrhythmia that can be life-threatening if sustained. The other choices (A, C, and D) are incorrect because frequent PVCs do not necessarily indicate a specific rhythm, atrial tachycardia originates in the atria, and supraventricular tachycardia involves rapid heart rates originating above the ventricles.
Question 2 of 5
In preparation for discharge, the nurse teaches a patient with chronic stable angina how to use the prescribed short-acting and long-acting nitrates. Which patient statement indicates that the teaching has been effective?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: “I will stop what I am doing and sit down before I put the nitroglycerin under my tongue.” This response indicates understanding of the importance of resting before taking nitroglycerin to avoid potential side effects like dizziness or fainting. Choice A is incorrect as pulse rate monitoring is not necessary before taking nitrates. Choice B is incorrect as putting on a patch at the onset of chest pain is not recommended. Choice D is incorrect as the patch should not be removed before taking sublingual nitroglycerin.
Question 3 of 5
When caring for a patient who has just arrived on the telemetry unit after having cardiac catheterization, which nursing intervention should the nurse delegate to a licensed practical/vocational nurse (LPN/LVN)?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Give the scheduled aspirin and lipid-lowering medication. This task is within the scope of practice for an LPN/LVN as it involves administering medications. LPN/LVNs are trained in medication administration and can safely give prescribed medications to patients. This intervention is crucial for the patient's post-cardiac catheterization care to prevent complications and promote recovery. Choice B is incorrect because assessing the catheter insertion site requires more specialized knowledge and skill, typically performed by a registered nurse or higher-level provider. Choice C involves patient education, which is usually the responsibility of the RN due to the complexity and importance of the information provided. Choice D involves titrating medications, which requires a higher level of assessment and decision-making that is typically within the RN's scope of practice.
Question 4 of 5
Which patient at the cardiovascular clinic requires the most immediate action by the nurse?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B. The patient with stable angina whose chest pain has recently increased in frequency requires immediate action as it could indicate a worsening condition or impending cardiac event. Stable angina worsening suggests unstable angina or even a heart attack. Regular angina may progress rapidly to an acute coronary syndrome. The other choices are not as urgent: A's blood glucose is slightly elevated but not critical for immediate intervention; C's high cholesterol, while concerning, does not require immediate action; and D's elevated blood pressure, although high, does not indicate immediate danger unless accompanied by symptoms.
Question 5 of 5
A client has developed acute pulmonary edema. Which test result should the nurse expect?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Interstitial edema by chest X-ray. Acute pulmonary edema results from fluid accumulation in the lungs, leading to interstitial edema visible on chest X-ray. B is incorrect because pulmonary edema typically causes respiratory acidosis, not metabolic alkalosis. C is incorrect as bradycardia is not a typical finding in acute pulmonary edema; tachycardia is more common. D is incorrect because pulmonary artery wedge pressure (PAWP) is usually elevated in acute pulmonary edema due to increased left ventricular filling pressure.