ATI RN
Introduction to Professional Nursing Questions
Question 1 of 5
The nurse assesses a patient on the second postoperative day after abdominal surgery to repair a perforated duodenal ulcer. Which finding is most important for the nurse to report to the surgeon?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Fine crackles audible at both lung bases. This finding is most important to report because it suggests potential respiratory complications like atelectasis or pneumonia, which are common postoperative issues. The nurse should report this immediately to prevent further respiratory deterioration. A: Tympanic temperature of 99.2°F is slightly elevated but not a critical finding postoperatively. C: Redness and swelling along the suture line are common signs of surgical healing and expected in the early postoperative period. D: 200 mL sanguineous fluid in the wound drain is within the expected range for the second postoperative day after abdominal surgery and does not indicate an immediate concern.
Question 2 of 5
The nurse plans discharge teaching for a patient with chronic heart failure who has prescriptions for digoxin (Lanoxin) and hydrochlorothiazide. Which instruction should the nurse include?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Notify the health care provider if nausea develops. This is important because nausea can be a sign of digoxin toxicity, a potential side effect of digoxin. By promptly notifying the healthcare provider, appropriate action can be taken to prevent any serious complications. A: Limit dietary sources of potassium - This is not directly related to the medications prescribed and is not necessary for the patient's current condition. B: Take the hydrochlorothiazide at bedtime - Timing of hydrochlorothiazide administration is not as critical as monitoring for side effects or interactions with other medications. D: Take the digoxin if the pulse is below 60 beats/min - This instruction could lead to potential overdosing if the patient takes digoxin unnecessarily based solely on heart rate without considering other factors.
Question 3 of 5
The nurse obtains a health history from an older adult with a prosthetic mitral valve who has symptoms of infective endocarditis (IE). Which question by the nurse helps identify a risk factor for IE?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: "Have you had dental work done recently?" This question helps identify a risk factor for infective endocarditis (IE) as dental procedures can introduce bacteria into the bloodstream, potentially leading to IE in individuals with prosthetic heart valves. Dental work is a known risk factor for IE due to the transient bacteremia that can occur during dental procedures, especially in those with prosthetic heart valves. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect as they do not directly relate to the risk factors for IE in this specific scenario. Asking about a history of heart attack (A) is not directly related to IE risk factors. Family history of endocarditis (B) may have some relevance, but it is not as directly linked to the current situation as dental work. Recent immunizations (C) are important for overall health but not a specific risk factor for IE in this case.
Question 4 of 5
A nurse teaches a client who has chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Which statements related to nutrition would the nurse include in this client’s teaching? (Select all that do not apply.)
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because eating high-fiber foods may lead to bloating and increased gas, which can exacerbate symptoms of COPD. Step 1: High-fiber foods can be difficult to digest, causing discomfort for COPD patients. Step 2: This can lead to increased abdominal pressure, making breathing more challenging for those with COPD. Step 3: Therefore, it is important for COPD patients to avoid high-fiber foods to prevent worsening of symptoms. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because they are all appropriate recommendations for a client with COPD to promote optimal nutrition and manage symptoms.
Question 5 of 5
A patient with bacterial pneumonia has coarse crackles and thick sputum. Which action should the nurse plan to promote airway clearance?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Help the patient to splint the chest when coughing. This action supports the patient in effectively clearing thick sputum by providing external support to the chest wall during the coughing effort. Splinting the chest can help increase the force of the cough and improve the effectiveness of clearing secretions. A: Restricting oral fluids during the day is incorrect as hydration is important in thinning sputum and promoting airway clearance. B: Encouraging pursed-lip breathing technique is helpful for some respiratory conditions, but it may not be as effective in promoting airway clearance in this case. D: Encouraging the patient to wear the nasal O2 cannula is important for oxygenation but does not directly address airway clearance.