ATI RN
Cardiovascular System Exam Questions And Answers Questions
Question 1 of 5
The client is given an alpha agonist. What might it be used for?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: For hemostasis. Alpha agonists (such as epinephrine or norepinephrine) are used for hemostasis by causing vasoconstriction, which helps in stopping bleeding by constricting blood vessels. Explanation for why other choices are incorrect: B: To dilate the arteries - Alpha agonists actually cause vasoconstriction, not dilation of arteries. C: To dilate the veins - Alpha agonists cause vasoconstriction, not dilation of veins. D: To decrease afterload - While alpha agonists can increase blood pressure by vasoconstriction, they are not typically used specifically to decrease afterload.
Question 2 of 5
The healthcare provider is preparing to administer heparin to a client. What lab value should be monitored?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct lab value to monitor when administering heparin is aPTT (Activated Partial Thromboplastin Time). This is because heparin affects the intrinsic pathway of the clotting cascade, which is reflected in the aPTT value. Monitoring aPTT helps ensure the therapeutic range of heparin to prevent clotting complications. PT/INR and platelet count are not specific to heparin monitoring, and hemoglobin does not directly reflect heparin's anticoagulant effects.
Question 3 of 5
The nurse is caring for a client with atrial fibrillation on dabigatran (Pradaxa). What is the most important instruction to give to the client?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Step-by-step rationale: 1. Dabigatran is an anticoagulant used to prevent blood clots. 2. Consistent dosing is crucial to maintain therapeutic levels. 3. Missing doses increases the risk of clot formation. 4. Taking it at the same time daily helps to ensure effectiveness. Summary: A: Taking with food is not essential for dabigatran. C: Alcohol does not directly interact with dabigatran. D: Monitoring for bleeding is important, but consistent dosing is the priority for efficacy.
Question 4 of 5
The client is on a nitrate for angina. What is the most common side effect the nurse should monitor for?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Headache. Nitrate medications vasodilate blood vessels, including those in the brain, which can lead to headaches. It is the most common side effect and often subsides with continued use. Flushing is also a common side effect but not as prevalent as headaches. Dizziness and nausea are less common side effects associated with nitrates and are usually seen in a smaller percentage of patients compared to headaches. Monitoring for headaches is crucial to ensure patient comfort and compliance with the medication regimen.
Question 5 of 5
The client on warfarin has an INR of 1.2. What is the nurse's priority action?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Increase the dose of warfarin. INR of 1.2 indicates subtherapeutic levels. The nurse's priority is to adjust the dose to achieve a therapeutic range (usually 2-3). Increasing the dose is essential to prevent clot formation. Administering vitamin K (B) is not indicated for a low INR. Monitoring for bleeding (C) is important, but not the priority when the INR is subtherapeutic. Holding the next dose and notifying the healthcare provider (D) may be necessary if the INR is too high, not low.