ATI RN
Med Surg Cardiovascular Practice Questions Questions
Question 1 of 5
The nurse is admitting a patient who has chest pain. Which assessment data suggest that the pain is caused by an acute myocardial infarction (AMI)?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because chest pain lasting longer than 30 minutes is a hallmark symptom of an acute myocardial infarction (AMI). This prolonged duration indicates potential heart tissue damage. Choice A is incorrect as pain worsening with deep breathing is more indicative of musculoskeletal issues. Choice C is incorrect as relief with nitroglycerin suggests angina, not AMI. Choice D is incorrect as reproducible pain with arm movement is more indicative of musculoskeletal issues.
Question 2 of 5
The nurse is caring for a patient who was admitted to the coronary care unit following an acute myocardial infarction (AMI) and percutaneous coronary intervention the previous day. Teaching for this patient would include
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: when cardiac rehabilitation will begin. This is important teaching for a patient following an AMI and PCI as cardiac rehabilitation plays a crucial role in improving recovery and reducing the risk of future cardiac events. It helps in improving physical strength, managing stress, and promoting overall heart health. By educating the patient about the timing and benefits of cardiac rehabilitation, the nurse is empowering the patient to actively participate in their recovery process. Incorrect choices: B: The typical emotional responses to AMI - While emotional support is important, teaching about emotional responses may not be as crucial as focusing on physical recovery through cardiac rehabilitation. C: Information regarding discharge medications - Important, but not as immediate as cardiac rehabilitation for post-AMI recovery. D: The pathophysiology of coronary artery disease - While education is important, understanding the pathophysiology may not be as pressing as knowing when to start cardiac rehabilitation for immediate recovery.
Question 3 of 5
A patient had a non–ST-segment-elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI) 3 days ago. Which nursing intervention included in the plan of care is appropriate for the registered nurse (RN) to delegate to an experienced licensed practical/vocational nurse (LPN/LVN)?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Reinforcement of teaching about the purpose of prescribed medications. This task is appropriate for delegation to an LPN/LVN because it involves reinforcing previously taught information to the patient, which does not require advanced assessment or critical thinking skills. LPN/LVNs are typically trained to provide education and reinforcement of information to patients under the supervision of an RN. Choice A is incorrect because evaluating the patient's response to walking in the hallway requires ongoing assessment and monitoring, which should be done by an RN. Choice B is incorrect as completing a referral form involves making decisions about follow-up care, which is beyond the scope of an LPN/LVN. Choice C is incorrect because educating the patient about the pathophysiology of heart disease requires a comprehensive understanding of the disease process and is best done by an RN or healthcare provider with advanced knowledge.
Question 4 of 5
A nurse administers heparin to a client with deep vein thrombophlebitis. Which laboratory value should the nurse monitor to determine the effectiveness of heparin?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: PTT (Partial Thromboplastin Time). PTT measures the effectiveness of heparin therapy by assessing the clotting time. Monitoring PTT helps ensure that the client's blood is within the therapeutic range for anticoagulation. HCT (Choice B) measures the percentage of red blood cells in the blood and is not directly related to heparin effectiveness. CBC (Choice C) is a complete blood count that includes various parameters, but it does not specifically indicate heparin effectiveness. PT (Choice D) is the Prothrombin Time, which is used to monitor warfarin therapy, not heparin.
Question 5 of 5
A client experiences acute myocardial ischemia. The nurse administers oxygen and sublingual nitroglycerin. When assessing an electrocardiogram (ECG) for evidence that blood flow to the myocardium has improved, the nurse should focus on the:
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Return of the ST segment to baseline. This is because in acute myocardial ischemia, ST segment elevation or depression is indicative of myocardial injury. Therefore, the improvement in blood flow would be reflected by the ST segment returning to baseline. Widening of the QRS complex (A) is not specific to blood flow improvement. Frequency of ectopic beats (B) may be present but is not a direct indicator of improved blood flow. Presence of a significant Q wave (D) indicates a previous myocardial infarction and does not necessarily reflect current blood flow status.