ATI RN
Cardiovascular System Practice Questions Questions
Question 1 of 5
The nurse obtains the following data when assessing a patient who experienced an ST- segment-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) 2 days previously. Which information is most important to report to the health care provider?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C. Bilateral crackles in the mid-lower lobes are indicative of possible pulmonary edema, a common complication post-STEMI that requires immediate medical attention to prevent respiratory distress. Reporting this symptom promptly can help the provider initiate appropriate interventions. A: Elevated troponin levels are expected post-STEMI and are not typically an acute concern after 2 days. B: Patient denial of heart attack history may indicate a lack of awareness but does not require immediate intervention. D: Occasional premature atrial contractions are common and not typically urgent in the context of a recent STEMI.
Question 2 of 5
A client with unstable angina receives routine applications of nitroglycerin ointment. The nurse should delay the next dose if the client has:
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because a systolic blood pressure below 90 mm Hg indicates hypotension, which can be exacerbated by nitroglycerin causing further blood pressure drop. Delaying the dose allows the blood pressure to stabilize. A: Atrial fibrillation is not a contraindication for nitroglycerin use. C: Headache is a common side effect of nitroglycerin but does not require delaying the dose. D: Skin redness at the current site may indicate a local reaction but does not necessarily require delaying the dose.
Question 3 of 5
A nurse is caring for a child with a cyanotic heart defect. Which signs should the nurse expect to observe?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Cyanosis, hypertension, clubbing, and lethargy. In a child with a cyanotic heart defect, cyanosis (bluish discoloration of the skin and mucous membranes) is expected due to decreased oxygen levels. Hypertension may occur as a compensatory mechanism to maintain perfusion. Clubbing can develop due to chronic hypoxia. Lethargy is common due to inadequate oxygenation. Choice B is incorrect because hypotension is less likely in this scenario. Crouching is not a typical sign of a cyanotic heart defect. Choice C is incorrect because irritability is less likely compared to lethargy in this situation. Crouching is not a common sign of a cyanotic heart defect. Choice D is incorrect because confusion and clonus are not typical signs of a cyanotic heart defect in children. Crouching is also not a common sign in this context.
Question 4 of 5
The nurse is caring for a client with a history of renal failure and a new myocardial infarction. The nurse who is reviewing laboratory findings would call the doctor to report which of the following results?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Correct Answer: C - Calcium level of 7.0 mg/dL Rationale: 1. In a client with renal failure and myocardial infarction, monitoring calcium levels is crucial due to potential electrolyte imbalances. 2. A calcium level of 7.0 mg/dL is abnormally low (normal range is 8.5-10.5 mg/dL), indicating hypocalcemia which can lead to cardiac arrhythmias. 3. Low calcium levels can worsen heart function and increase the risk of complications in a client with a recent myocardial infarction. 4. Calling the doctor to report this critical result is essential for prompt intervention to prevent adverse cardiac events. Summary of Other Choices: A: Potassium level of 5.0 mEq/L - Within normal range, not urgent in this scenario. B: Sodium level of 145 mEq/L - Within normal range, not a priority in this context. D: Digoxin/d
Question 5 of 5
A client with endocarditis develops sudden leg pain with pallor, tingling, and loss of peripheral pulses. The nurse's initial action should be to:
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Notify the physician about the findings. This is the most appropriate action as the client's symptoms suggest a potential complication like arterial embolism, which requires immediate medical intervention. Elevating the leg (choice A) may worsen circulation, wrapping the leg in a blanket (choice B) could further compromise blood flow, and performing passive ROM exercises (choice D) can be harmful if there is an arterial blockage. Notifying the physician promptly allows for timely assessment and treatment to prevent further complications.