ATI RN
Cardiovascular System Exam Questions And Answers Questions
Question 1 of 5
The client is on hydrochlorothiazide and digoxin. What effect can the nurse expect?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because hydrochlorothiazide is a diuretic that can lead to hypokalemia (decreased potassium levels), which increases the risk of digoxin toxicity as digoxin requires adequate potassium levels for proper function. Choice A is incorrect because hydrochlorothiazide does not increase digoxin levels. Choice B is incorrect because hydrochlorothiazide can actually increase digoxin levels due to potential electrolyte disturbances. Choice D is incorrect as digoxin does not affect the effectiveness of hydrochlorothiazide.
Question 2 of 5
The nurse is teaching a client about the side effects of beta blockers. What is the most important side effect to monitor?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Hypotension. Beta blockers can cause a decrease in blood pressure, leading to hypotension. Monitoring for hypotension is crucial as it can result in dizziness, fainting, or even shock. Bradycardia (choice B) is a common side effect but usually not as critical as hypotension. Hyperkalemia (choice C) is a potential side effect of some beta blockers but is less common and typically not as urgent as hypotension. Tachycardia (choice D) is the opposite of what beta blockers typically cause, making it an unlikely side effect to monitor for in this case.
Question 3 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 4 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 5 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.