ATI RN
Cardiovascular Test Bank Questions Questions
Question 1 of 5
The client is taking tissue plasminogen activator (TPA). The nurse knows that the mechanism of action of this drug is what?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Rationale: Tissue plasminogen activator (TPA) promotes the conversion of plasminogen to plasmin, which breaks down blood clots. Plasmin is an enzyme that dissolves fibrin, the protein meshwork that forms blood clots. This action helps in thrombolysis, which is the breakdown of blood clots. The other options are incorrect because TPA does not prevent platelet activation (Choice A), inactivate clotting factors (Choice B), or block the synthesis of clotting factors (Choice D). TPA specifically targets the breakdown of blood clots by promoting the conversion of plasminogen to plasmin.
Question 2 of 5
What does this represent?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Regular sinus rhythm. Sinus rhythm is characterized by a normal heart rate and regular rhythm originating from the sinoatrial (SA) node. In this ECG strip, there are consistent P waves preceding each QRS complex, indicating normal atrial depolarization and a regular ventricular response. The QRS complexes are also narrow, suggesting a normal conduction pathway. Sinus tachycardia (choice A) would show a fast heart rate, sinus bradycardia (choice C) would show a slow heart rate, and frequent premature ventricular contractions (PVCs) (choice D) would show irregular heartbeats with wide QRS complexes.
Question 3 of 5
The client has several PVCs in a row on a standard EKG. What is this rhythm called?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Ventricular tachycardia. In this scenario, the client experiencing several PVCs in a row indicates a rapid heart rate originating from the ventricles. Ventricular tachycardia is characterized by three or more consecutive PVCs at a rate exceeding 100 beats per minute. It is a serious arrhythmia that can be life-threatening if sustained. The other choices (A, C, and D) are incorrect because frequent PVCs do not necessarily indicate a specific rhythm, atrial tachycardia originates in the atria, and supraventricular tachycardia involves rapid heart rates originating above the ventricles.
Question 4 of 5
After the nurse teaches the patient about the use of carvedilol (Coreg) in preventing anginal episodes, which statement by a patient indicates that the teaching has been effective?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Correct Answer: B Rationale: 1. The statement "It is important not to suddenly stop taking the carvedilol" demonstrates understanding of the need for gradual tapering to prevent rebound effects. 2. Abrupt discontinuation of carvedilol can lead to worsening angina or potential heart complications. 3. This statement reflects patient's awareness of the importance of medication adherence for optimal therapeutic outcomes. Summary: A: Incorrect. Carvedilol does not make the heart muscle work harder; it reduces the workload on the heart. C: Incorrect. Shortness of breath is not a common side effect of carvedilol. D: Incorrect. Carvedilol works by reducing blood pressure and heart rate, not by directly increasing blood flow to the heart muscle.
Question 5 of 5
In preparation for discharge, the nurse teaches a patient with chronic stable angina how to use the prescribed short-acting and long-acting nitrates. Which patient statement indicates that the teaching has been effective?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: “I will stop what I am doing and sit down before I put the nitroglycerin under my tongue.” This response indicates understanding of the importance of resting before taking nitroglycerin to avoid potential side effects like dizziness or fainting. Choice A is incorrect as pulse rate monitoring is not necessary before taking nitrates. Choice B is incorrect as putting on a patch at the onset of chest pain is not recommended. Choice D is incorrect as the patch should not be removed before taking sublingual nitroglycerin.