ATI RN
Cardiovascular System Test Bank Questions
Question 1 of 5
The client is having a standard electrocardiogram. The nurse knows that the QT segment represents what?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: The total time for ventricular depolarization and repolarization. The QT segment on an electrocardiogram represents the time it takes for both ventricular depolarization (Q wave) and repolarization (T wave) to occur. This segment is important for assessing the risk of arrhythmias, as abnormalities in the QT interval can indicate potential cardiac issues. Choice A is incorrect because the QT segment does not represent atrial depolarization, which is typically seen in the P wave. Choice C is incorrect as it confuses the QT segment with atrial activity. Choice D is incorrect as it only mentions ventricular depolarization, while the QT segment encompasses both depolarization and repolarization of the ventricles.
Question 2 of 5
Which statement made by a patient with coronary artery disease after the nurse has completed teaching about the therapeutic lifestyle changes (TLC) diet indicates that further teaching is needed?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because peanut butter is a good source of healthy fats and protein, which can be included in a TLC diet in moderation. Switching to 1% milk (A) reduces saturated fat intake, eating salmon (B) provides omega-3 fatty acids, and having a glass of wine (C) in moderation may have cardiovascular benefits. Peanut butter can be part of a heart-healthy diet, so the patient does not need to eliminate it completely.
Question 3 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 is because the patient's symptoms of chest pain that worsens with deep breaths and improves with leaning forward suggest pericarditis, a common complication post-MI. A pericardial friction rub is a classic sign of pericarditis. Assessing the feet for pedal edema (Choice A) is not relevant to the presenting symptoms. Palpating radial pulses bilaterally (Choice B) and checking the heart monitor for dysrhythmias (Choice D) are not the priority in this situation.
Question 4 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 could indicate impaired circulation to the right hand due to a complication related to the radial artery graft. Impaired circulation could lead to ischemia or even graft failure, which are serious concerns post coronary artery bypass grafting. This information is crucial to communicate to the health care provider for immediate intervention to prevent further complications. Incorrect choices: A: Complaints of incisional chest pain - While chest pain is important to monitor post-surgery, it is a common occurrence and may not indicate a serious complication. C: Fine crackles heard at both lung bases - This finding may suggest fluid overload or pulmonary issues, but it is not directly related to the radial artery graft or its complications. D: Redness on both sides of the sternal incision - Redness at the incision site can be a sign of infection, but it is not as urgent as the potential circulation issue in the right hand, which could
Question 5 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: To improve physical activity for a mildly obese 71-yr-old patient, the nurse should determine what physical activities the patient enjoys. This approach considers the patient's preferences, increasing the likelihood of adherence. Stressing weight loss (A) may not be motivating for everyone. Limiting exercise time (C) is not evidence-based. A warm-up (D) is important but not the initial step.