ATI RN
Health Care Utilization by Age Group Questions
Question 1 of 5
The highest priority for assessment by nurses caring for older adults who self-administer medications is
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: use of multiple drugs with anticholinergic effects. This is the highest priority because anticholinergic medications are commonly prescribed to older adults and can lead to serious adverse effects such as confusion, memory issues, and falls. Nurses must assess for these effects to prevent harm. Choice B (overuse of medications for erectile dysfunction) is not as high a priority as anticholinergic effects, as it is not as common and typically has less immediate serious consequences for older adults. Choice C (missed doses of medications for arthritis) is important but not as critical as assessing for anticholinergic effects, as missed doses can generally be managed through education and adherence support. Choice D (trading medications with acquaintances) is a serious concern but is not as high a priority as assessing for anticholinergic effects, as the immediate risks associated with anticholinergic medications are more severe.
Question 2 of 5
When teaching a patient with binge-purge bulimia, the nurse should give priority to information about:
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Symptoms of hypokalemia. This is the priority because individuals with binge-purge bulimia often have electrolyte imbalances, including hypokalemia, which can lead to serious cardiac complications. Educating the patient on recognizing symptoms of hypokalemia, such as weakness, fatigue, and irregular heartbeats, is crucial for early intervention. A: Self-monitoring of daily food and fluid intake is important but not the priority when dealing with potential life-threatening complications like hypokalemia. B: Establishing the desired daily weight gain is not appropriate for individuals with binge-purge bulimia as the focus should be on addressing the underlying psychological issues rather than weight gain. D: Self-esteem maintenance is important in the long term but does not take precedence over addressing immediate health risks such as hypokalemia.
Question 3 of 5
Which nursing progress note would most suggest that the treatment plan of a severely depressed and withdrawn patient has been effective?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because it indicates positive changes in mood, engagement, and social interaction, which are key indicators of effective treatment for severe depression. Sleeping 6 hours straight shows improved sleep patterns, singing with the activity group reflects increased participation and enjoyment, and being eager to see the grandchild demonstrates a renewed sense of joy and connection. Choice B is incorrect because although the patient denies suicidal ideation, the level of activity and engagement is not as high as in choice A. Choice C is incorrect as the focus is on physical aspects rather than emotional well-being and social interaction. Choice D is incorrect because the patient still shows signs of depression such as lack of appetite and loss of interest in activities.
Question 4 of 5
During a manic episode, a patient is hyperactive, restless, and disorganized. The patient goes to the dining room and begins to throw food and dishes. Verbal intervention is ineffective. The patient's behavior poses a substantial risk of harm to others. Staff escorts the patient to the patient's room to dine alone. What is the rationale for this action?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Reduce environmental stimuli that negatively affect the patient. This action helps reduce stimulation that may be exacerbating the manic episode, promoting a calmer environment for the patient. Removing the patient from the dining room minimizes triggers for further disruptive behavior. This approach prioritizes the patient's well-being by managing the environmental factors contributing to the escalation of symptoms. A: Preventing other patients from observing the behavior does not directly address the patient's needs during the manic episode and does not actively help in managing the situation. C: Protecting the patient's biological integrity until medication takes effect may be important, but in this scenario, the immediate focus is on addressing the environmental factors contributing to the behavior. D: Reinforcing limit setting is important in managing behavior, but in this specific situation, reducing environmental stimuli is a more immediate and effective intervention.
Question 5 of 5
A patient with acute mania dances atop a pool table, waves a cue in one hand, and says, "I'll throw the pool balls if anyone comes near me." The nurse's first intervention is to:
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because taking the patient to seclusion ensures safety for both the patient and others. This intervention controls the immediate risk of harm from the patient's unpredictable behavior. Telling the patient (choice A) may escalate the situation. Removing the patient from the pool table (choice C) may not address the underlying threat. Clearing the room of all other patients (choice D) is not the priority; ensuring immediate safety is paramount in this scenario.