ATI RN
Assess Vital Signs Questions
Question 1 of 5
The nurse educator is preparing an education module for the nursing staff on the dermis layer of skin. Which of these statements would be included in the module? The dermis:
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D. The dermis layer of the skin contains sensory receptors, such as Meissner's corpuscles and Pacinian corpuscles, which are responsible for detecting touch, pressure, temperature, and pain. This information is crucial for the nursing staff to understand as it impacts patient care and assessment. Choice A is incorrect because fat cells are predominantly found in the subcutaneous tissue, not in the dermis layer. Choice B is incorrect because keratin is primarily found in the epidermis, not the dermis. Choice C is incorrect because the dermis is not replaced every 4 weeks; it is a relatively stable layer compared to the epidermis, which undergoes continuous renewal.
Question 2 of 5
A patient has been admitted for severe psoriasis. The nurse expects to see what finding in the patient's fingernails?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Pitting. Pitting of the fingernails is a common finding in patients with severe psoriasis due to the involvement of nail matrix. It presents as small depressions or holes on the nail surface. This occurs as a result of abnormal keratinization in the nail matrix. Splinter hemorrhages (choice A) are seen in conditions like infective endocarditis, not psoriasis. Paronychia (choice B) is an infection around the nail fold. Beau lines (choice D) are transverse depressions in the nail plate caused by temporary disruption in nail growth, often due to systemic illness.
Question 3 of 5
In performing an examination of a 3-year-old child with a suspected ear infection, the nurse would:
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because performing the otoscopic examination at the end of the assessment allows the nurse to build rapport with the child first, reducing anxiety and increasing cooperation. This approach also prevents the child from becoming upset or uncooperative due to discomfort during the examination. Additionally, it ensures that the child's comfort and trust are prioritized during the assessment process. Choice A is incorrect because omitting the otoscopic examination based on the child having a fever can lead to missing important diagnostic information. Choice B is incorrect as pulling the ear up and back before inserting the speculum is not recommended practice and can cause discomfort to the child. Choice C is incorrect as it is important for the mother to be present to provide comfort and support to the child during the examination.
Question 4 of 5
A 92-year-old patient has had a stroke. The right side of his face is drooping. The nurse might also suspect which of these assessment findings?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Dysphagia. Dysphagia is the difficulty or discomfort in swallowing, which can occur after a stroke due to facial muscle weakness. In this case, the right-sided facial drooping indicates a stroke affecting the left side of the brain, which can lead to dysphagia. Epistaxis (nosebleed) and rhinorrhea (runny nose) are not typically associated with facial drooping after a stroke. Xerostomia (dry mouth) is more related to salivary gland dysfunction and is not directly related to facial muscle weakness.
Question 5 of 5
When examining the mouth of an older patient, the nurse recognizes which finding is due to the aging process?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because as individuals age, the papillae on the tongue tend to flatten, resulting in a smoother appearance. This is a normal part of the aging process. Choice A is incorrect as teeth appearing shorter is more likely due to wear and tear or dental issues. Choice C, beefy red buccal mucosa, may indicate inflammation or infection, not necessarily related to aging. Choice D, a painless lump on the dorsum of the tongue, should be further investigated as it could be a sign of a more serious condition.