The electrocardiogram (ECG) report on a newly admitted client states that the tracing reflects 'an elevated ST segment.' The nurse is aware that the ST segment represents what physiological process?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The ST segment is a plateau period that represents the depolarization of the ventricular myocardium and follows the QRS complex. Atrial depolarization is represented by the P wave. The T wave represents ventricular repolarization. The initial impulse generated by the SA node precedes the P wave and is not seen on the ECG. (Source: Document, Pretest Answer 2, p. 76)

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Iron-deficiency anemia, common in chronic blood loss (e.g., menstruation), depletes iron for hemoglobin. It’s more common in women, doesn’t affect leukocytes, and is typically treated with oral iron (injections are rare).

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Plasma proteins (albumin, globulins, fibrinogen) are ~7-9% of plasma volume; water is ~91-93%, and solutes (e.g., electrolytes) make up the rest. Higher percentages reflect whole blood or other components.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Glomerular capillary pressure is higher (~55 mmHg) than in systemic capillaries (~25 mmHg) due to the afferent arteriole’s larger diameter and efferent arteriole’s resistance, enhancing filtration for urine formation. Lower pressure (A) is typical elsewhere.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Systemic circulation involves blood flow from the heart to the body (excluding lungs) and back, including the aorta (A), femoral vein (B), and superior vena cava (C). The pulmonary vein (D) belongs to pulmonary circulation, carrying oxygenated blood from lungs to the left atrium, making it the exception.