ATI RN
ANCC Cardiovascular Certification Practice Questions Questions
Question 1 of 5
The client is preparing to have a cardiac stress test. What does the nurse tell the client to do in order to have the test?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: The client will run on a treadmill. This is because a cardiac stress test typically involves the client walking or running on a treadmill to increase their heart rate while being monitored for any abnormalities in the heart's function. This helps healthcare providers assess the heart's response to exercise and detect any potential cardiac issues. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because lying still throughout the test, having an EKG after the test, and the test hurting for only a moment do not accurately describe the process of a cardiac stress test.
Question 2 of 5
A few days after experiencing a myocardial infarction (MI) and successful percutaneous coronary intervention, the patient states, “It was just a little chest pain. As soon as I get out of here, I’m going for my vacation as planned.” Which reply would be most appropriate for the nurse to make?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer, C, is appropriate because it addresses the patient's unrealistic expectations after a heart attack. It acknowledges the seriousness of the situation and gently suggests that plans may need to be adjusted for health reasons. Choice A doesn't directly address the patient's future plans. Choice B focuses on vacation plans rather than the patient's health. Choice D is incorrect as it doesn't address the patient's immediate plans and may not be necessary to state a specific recovery timeline at this point. It's important to prioritize the patient's understanding and acceptance of their condition.
Question 3 of 5
A patient admitted to the coronary care unit (CCU) with an ST-segment-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) is restless and anxious. The blood pressure is 86/40 mm Hg, and heart rate is 132 beats/min. Based on this information, which nursing diagnosis is a priority for the patient?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Decreased cardiac output related to cardiogenic shock. In this case, the patient's low blood pressure and high heart rate indicate poor cardiac output. Cardiogenic shock is a life-threatening condition where the heart cannot pump enough blood to meet the body's needs. This is a priority nursing diagnosis as it requires immediate intervention to stabilize the patient's hemodynamics and prevent further deterioration. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because while they are valid concerns for the patient, they are not as immediately life-threatening as cardiogenic shock. Acute pain, anxiety, and stress overload can all be addressed once the patient's hemodynamic stability is ensured. However, without addressing the decreased cardiac output and cardiogenic shock first, the patient's condition could rapidly worsen and lead to serious consequences.
Question 4 of 5
Which lifestyle changes should a client diagnosed with coronary artery disease consider?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D (All of the Above). Smoking cessation reduces cardiovascular risks. Regular exercise improves heart health. Weight reduction can lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Each lifestyle change targets a specific risk factor for coronary artery disease, making all the choices essential for managing the condition effectively. Therefore, selecting all the options is the most comprehensive approach to address the client's coronary artery disease.
Question 5 of 5
A client is prescribed diltiazem (Cardizem) to manage his hypertension. The nurse should tell the client the diltiazem will:
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because diltiazem is a calcium channel blocker that primarily works by lowering heart rate and blood pressure. It does this by relaxing blood vessels and reducing the workload on the heart. It does not directly affect urine output, so choice C is incorrect. While diltiazem may have some impact on urine output indirectly through its effects on blood pressure, it is not a primary effect of the medication. Choice A is incorrect because diltiazem affects both heart rate and blood pressure, not just blood pressure alone. Choice D is incorrect because while diltiazem does lower heart rate and blood pressure, it does not directly increase urine output.