ATI RN
Nursing Process Final Exam Questions Questions
Question 1 of 9
The nurse expects to note an elevated serum glucose level in a client with hyperosmolar hyperglycemic nonketonic syndrome (HHNS). Which other laboratory finding should the nurse anticipate?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Step 1: In HHNS, there is severe hyperglycemia leading to osmotic diuresis. Step 2: Osmotic diuresis causes loss of potassium in urine, leading to hypokalemia. Step 3: Hypokalemia is a common electrolyte imbalance in HHNS due to excessive urinary loss of potassium. Step 4: Therefore, the nurse should anticipate a below-normal serum potassium level in a client with HHNS. Summary: A: Elevated serum acetone level is seen in diabetic ketoacidosis, not HHNS. B: Serum alkalosis is not typically associated with HHNS. C: Serum ketone bodies are elevated in diabetic ketoacidosis, not HHNS.
Question 2 of 9
The nurse is assessing a client with possible Cushing’s syndrome. In a client with Cushing’s syndrome, the nurse would expect to find:
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: deposits of adipose tissue in the trunk and dorsocervical area. In Cushing's syndrome, there is excess cortisol production leading to central obesity with fat accumulation in the trunk and dorsocervical area (buffalo hump). This is due to cortisol's role in redistributing fat. A: hypotension is incorrect because individuals with Cushing's syndrome typically have hypertension due to the effects of excess cortisol on blood pressure regulation. B: thick, coarse skin is incorrect as individuals with Cushing's syndrome may have thin, fragile skin due to decreased collagen formation. D: weight gain in arms and legs is incorrect as the weight gain in Cushing's syndrome tends to be centralized in the trunk and face rather than the extremities.
Question 3 of 9
A client asks the nurse what PSA is. The nurse should reply that is stands for:
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Rationale for Correct Answer (A): Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) is a protein produced by the prostate gland. It is primarily used to screen for prostate cancer by measuring the levels of PSA in the blood. PSA levels can help detect prostate cancer early. Therefore, choice A is the correct answer as it accurately describes PSA and its primary use. Summary of Incorrect Choices: B: Protein serum antigen is not a commonly known term in healthcare. There is no specific antigen called "protein serum antigen" used to determine protein levels. C: Pneumococcal strep antigen is a bacterial antigen that causes pneumonia, not related to PSA used in prostate cancer screening. D: Papanicolua-specific antigen is not a recognized term. The Papanicolaou test (Pap smear) is used for cervical cancer screening, not a specific antigen like PSA.
Question 4 of 9
The nurse expects to note an elevated serum glucose level in a client with hyperosmolar hyperglycemic nonketonic syndrome (HHNS). Which other laboratory finding should the nurse anticipate?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Step 1: In HHNS, there is severe hyperglycemia leading to osmotic diuresis. Step 2: Osmotic diuresis causes loss of potassium in urine, leading to hypokalemia. Step 3: Hypokalemia is a common electrolyte imbalance in HHNS due to excessive urinary loss of potassium. Step 4: Therefore, the nurse should anticipate a below-normal serum potassium level in a client with HHNS. Summary: A: Elevated serum acetone level is seen in diabetic ketoacidosis, not HHNS. B: Serum alkalosis is not typically associated with HHNS. C: Serum ketone bodies are elevated in diabetic ketoacidosis, not HHNS.
Question 5 of 9
Which of the following nursing interventions is appropriate after a lumbar puncture?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Have the patient lie flat for 6 to 8 hours after a lumbar puncture to prevent complications like post-lumbar puncture headache. Lying flat helps maintain CSF pressure and reduce the risk of leakage. B: Keeping the patient from eating or drinking for 4 hours is not necessary after a lumbar puncture. C: Monitoring pedal pulses q4h is irrelevant to post-lumbar puncture care. D: Keeping the head of the bed elevated 30 degrees for 24 hours is not recommended after a lumbar puncture as it may increase the risk of complications.
Question 6 of 9
A client with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis and a history of two myocardial infarctions and coronary artery disease is to receive levothyroxine (Synthroid). Because of the client’s cardiac history, the nurse would expect that the client’s initial dose for the thyroid replacement would be which of the following?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: 25 g/day, initially. In this scenario, the client with Hashimoto's thyroiditis and a history of cardiac issues requires a cautious approach due to the risk of exacerbating cardiac conditions with thyroid hormone replacement. Starting with a low dose of 25 µg/day allows for careful monitoring of the client's response and prevents potential adverse effects on the cardiovascular system. Summary: B: Delayed until after thyroid surgery - Not appropriate as the client requires thyroid replacement therapy for Hashimoto's thyroiditis. C: 100 µg/day, initially - Too high of an initial dose and may lead to adverse cardiovascular effects. D: Initiated before thyroid surgery - Not relevant to the client's situation as there is no indication for thyroid surgery mentioned in the question.
Question 7 of 9
The nurse should include which of the following in preprocedure teaching for a patient scheduled for carotid angiography?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: "You may feel a burning sensation when the dye is injected." This is important to include in preprocedure teaching for carotid angiography because it prepares the patient for a common sensation they may experience during the procedure. Providing this information helps manage expectations and reduce anxiety. Choice A is incorrect because carotid angiography is typically done with the patient awake. Choice B is incorrect as carotid angiography usually takes around 30-60 minutes. Choice D is incorrect because there can be complications associated with carotid angiography, such as allergic reactions or damage to blood vessels.
Question 8 of 9
Which of the ff is an important nursing intervention for HIV positive clients?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Step 1: Providing referral to support groups and resources for information is essential for HIV positive clients as it offers emotional support, education, and access to resources for managing the condition. Step 2: Support groups provide a safe space for clients to share experiences, seek advice, and reduce feelings of isolation. Step 3: Resources for information help clients stay informed about their condition, treatment options, and lifestyle modifications. Step 4: Referral to support groups and resources promotes holistic care and enhances the client's overall well-being. Summary: Choices A, B, and C are incorrect as they do not address the specific needs of HIV positive clients and may even pose risks to their health. Option D is the most appropriate intervention as it focuses on comprehensive support and empowerment for clients.
Question 9 of 9
An unconscious patient is brought to the emergency department. Which of the following assessments should be implemented first?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: The client’s airway should be assessed first. This is because airway management is the top priority in any emergency situation to ensure the patient can breathe. Without a patent airway, the patient's oxygenation and ventilation will be compromised, leading to serious complications or death. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because assessing the airway takes precedence over determining the reason for admission, reviewing medications, or assessing past medical history in an unconscious patient. These other assessments are important but not as critical as securing the airway to maintain the patient's breathing and oxygenation.