ATI RN
Cardiovascular Practice Questions Questions
Question 1 of 5
The client is on an ADP receptor blocker for the prevention of recurrent myocardial infarction. What does the nurse expect when the client develops hemorrhaging and a low platelet count?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Rationale for Correct Answer (C): The client developing hemorrhaging and a low platelet count while on an ADP receptor blocker suggests thrombotic thrombocytopenia. Thrombotic thrombocytopenia is a rare but serious adverse effect characterized by the formation of blood clots and a decrease in platelet count. This condition can lead to both bleeding and clotting issues, explaining the hemorrhaging and low platelet count in the client. Summary of Incorrect Choices: A: The low platelet count is not an anticipated reaction to taking an ADP receptor blocker. While some antiplatelet medications can cause decreased platelet count, thrombotic thrombocytopenia is a more specific and severe condition. B: The combination of ADP receptor blockers with aspirin is a common therapy for preventing cardiovascular events but does not directly explain the development of thrombotic thrombocytopenia. D: Simply taking too much of the ADP receptor blocker
Question 2 of 5
The client has been found to have a normal cardiac output. What value represents a normal cardiac output?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C (4 l/min) as it represents the normal cardiac output value for an average adult at rest. Cardiac output is the volume of blood pumped by the heart per minute. Normal cardiac output ranges from 4-8 liters per minute in adults. Options A, B, and D are incorrect as they fall below or exceed the normal range, indicating either insufficient or excessive blood being pumped by the heart, which can lead to health issues.
Question 3 of 5
The client has atrial fibrillation. The treatment of choice to convert to normal sinus rhythm is what?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Cardioversion. Cardioversion is the treatment of choice to electrically or pharmacologically convert atrial fibrillation to normal sinus rhythm. Digoxin (A) is used for rate control, not rhythm conversion. Metoprolol (C) is a beta-blocker that helps control heart rate but does not convert rhythm. Verapamil (D) is a calcium channel blocker that can worsen atrial fibrillation and is contraindicated for rhythm conversion.
Question 4 of 5
When developing a teaching plan for a 61-yr-old patient with multiple risk factors for coronary artery disease (CAD), the nurse should focus primarily on the
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: elevated low-density lipoprotein (LDL) level. This is the most critical factor to focus on when developing a teaching plan for a patient with multiple risk factors for CAD. Elevated LDL is a major contributor to the development of atherosclerosis, a key process in CAD. Lowering LDL through lifestyle modifications or medication can significantly reduce the risk of CAD. A: Family history is important but cannot be modified. C: Gender is a non-modifiable risk factor and may play a role but is not as directly impactful as elevated LDL. D: While age is a risk factor for CAD, it is not as modifiable as lowering LDL levels. In summary, focusing on controlling the elevated LDL level through lifestyle changes and medication will have the most significant impact on reducing the patient's risk for CAD.
Question 5 of 5
Heparin is ordered for a patient with a non–ST-segment-elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI). What is the purpose of the heparin?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Heparin prevents the development of new clots in the coronary arteries. Heparin is commonly used in NSTEMI to prevent the formation of new clots, which can worsen the blockage in the coronary arteries. It does not enhance platelet aggregation (A), decrease plaque size (B), or dissolve existing clots (D). Preventing new clots is crucial in NSTEMI to avoid further ischemia and potential complications.