ATI RN
Medical Surgical Nursing Concepts and Practice Test Bank Questions
Question 1 of 5
The nurse is providing care to several clients on a medical-surgical unit. Which client is at highest risk for a nonthrombotic pulmonary embolism (PE)?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The client who is postoperative from a major surgery, such as femur fracture repair, is at the highest risk for a nonthrombotic pulmonary embolism (PE). Postoperative clients are at an increased risk due to factors such as immobility, surgical trauma, and possible venous stasis. Additionally, major orthopedic surgeries involving the lower extremities carry a higher risk of developing a PE because of the potential for blood clots to form in the veins of the legs (deep vein thrombosis) and then travel to the lungs, leading to a pulmonary embolism. Close monitoring and preventative measures, such as early ambulation, compression devices, and anticoagulant therapy, are crucial in preventing this serious complication in postoperative clients.
Question 2 of 5
The nurse is caring for a patient with newly diagnosed hypothyroidism. What should the nurse expect when assessing this patient’s skin?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Patients with hypothyroidism often exhibit rough, dry skin as a result of decreased thyroid hormone levels impacting the skin's ability to retain moisture. This condition, known as myxedema, can lead to skin changes such as dryness, scaling, and thickening. The skin may also appear pale or yellowish due to reduced blood flow. Therefore, the nurse should expect the patient with newly diagnosed hypothyroidism to present with rough, dry skin during assessment.
Question 3 of 5
A patient is diagnosed with a renal system disorder that is believed to be the result of genetic and environmental factors. Which health problem is the patient most likely experiencing?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Bladder cancer is a health problem that can result from a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Genetic mutations can predispose individuals to developing bladder cancer, while environmental factors such as smoking, exposure to certain chemicals, and chronic bladder irritation can also contribute to the development of the disease. Hematuria (blood in the urine) can be a symptom of bladder cancer, but it is not specific to this type of cancer and can also occur in other renal system disorders. Incontinence and kidney infections are not typically associated with genetic predisposition as much as bladder cancer.
Question 4 of 5
The nurse is discussing the goals of treatment with a patient experiencing an end-stage renal disease. Which goal should the nurse identify as being appropriate for this patient?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: For a patient experiencing end-stage renal disease, it is important for the nurse to discuss the advantages and disadvantages of different renal replacement therapies. This goal is crucial to help the patient make informed decisions about their treatment options. Patients with end-stage renal disease often face choices between hemodialysis, peritoneal dialysis, and kidney transplantation. Understanding the advantages and disadvantages of each therapy can empower the patient to actively participate in their treatment decision-making process and achieve the best possible outcomes for their health. It is essential for the nurse to promote patient education and shared decision-making to ensure that the patient's preferences and values are respected throughout their care journey.
Question 5 of 5
The day following a below-the-knee amputation, the patient complains of toes cramping in the amputated foot. What should the nurse realize the patient is experiencing?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Phantom limb sensation is a common phenomenon where a patient perceives sensations such as cramping, itching, or pain in the limb that has been amputated. This occurs because the brain continues to receive signals from the nerves that originally innervated the amputated limb, leading to the perception of sensation in the absent body part. In this case, the patient's complaint of toes cramping in the amputated foot is indicative of phantom limb sensation rather than contractures, attention-seeking behavior, or chronic stump pain. It is important for the nurse to educate the patient about this phenomenon and provide appropriate support and reassurance.