ATI RN
RN Vital Signs Assessment ATI Questions
Question 1 of 5
The nurse is caring for an older-adult patient and notes that the temperature is 96.8°F (36°C). How will the nurse interpret this?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Older adults often have lower baseline temperatures (e.g., 96.8°F) due to slower metabolism; is normal. Too high or infection doesn't fit without symptoms. Intervention is unnecessary. Choice A is correct, per geriatric nursing norms.
Question 2 of 5
A patient has just returned from a liver biopsy and is ordered to lie on her right side for 1 hour. An IV is in the left basilic vein. What site do you instruct the nursing assistive personnel (NAP) to use to obtain a blood pressure reading?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Post-liver biopsy, lying on the right side compresses the site, so right arm BP risks inaccuracy or disruption. The IV in the left arm contraindicates that site due to flow interference. Right leg is viable but less common. Left leg avoids both issues, ensuring accuracy. Choice D is correct, per nursing standards prioritizing unaffected limbs for BP in procedural patients, balancing safety and reliability.
Question 3 of 5
The incidence of hypertension is greater in which of the following?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: African Americans have higher hypertension rates (e.g., AHA data). Other groups (A, C, D) have lower incidence. Choice B is correct, per public health statistics guiding nursing focus.
Question 4 of 5
A nurse is assessing a client's body temperature and notices shivering and goosebumps. What action should the nurse take?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Shivering and goosebumps indicate the body is raising its temperature, likely due to cold. Warm blankets prevent heat loss and enhance comfort. Antipyretics treat fever, not applicable here. Cool compresses worsen heat loss. Notifying the provider is unnecessary for a normal response. Choice A is correct, per the explanation, reflecting nursing's role in supporting thermoregulation during hypothermia or chills.
Question 5 of 5
A nurse is assessing a client's pain and notes that the client is grimacing, guarding the abdominal area, and rating their pain as 8 out of 10. What action should the nurse take?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Grimacing, guarding, and 8/10 pain warrant non-pharmacological relief like positioning or heat. Waiting delays relief. Max meds need orders. PT consult is secondary. Choice C is correct, per the explanation, offering immediate comfort.