ATI RN
Cardiovascular Test Bank Questions
Question 1 of 5
The registered nurse has finished reviewing the 7:00 a.m shift report on a telemetry unit. Which of the following clients would be the best for the RN to assign to the licensed practical nurse?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because the 7-day postoperative CABG client with an infection in the sternal surgical incision requires ongoing wound care, dressings, and irrigation, which are within the scope of practice for a licensed practical nurse. Choice B is incorrect because a client who has just arrived from the emergency room for observation to rule out a myocardial infarction may require immediate assessment and interventions beyond the scope of a licensed practical nurse. Choice C is incorrect because a client who has had successful valve replacement therapy and will be discharged this morning may require coordination of care, discharge teaching, and documentation, which are typically the responsibilities of a registered nurse. Choice D is incorrect because a client scheduled for a percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty at 10:00 a.m may require pre-procedure preparations, monitoring, and post-procedure care that are best handled by a registered nurse.
Question 2 of 5
A toddler requires supplemental oxygen therapy for a cyanotic heart defect. In planning for home care, the nurse would discuss which of the following with the parents?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because promoting mobility while meeting the need for supplemental oxygen is crucial for the toddler's overall well-being. This helps prevent complications such as pneumonia and promotes physical development. Maintaining the child on bedrest (A) is not recommended as it can lead to muscle weakness and other health issues. Discussing symptoms of oxygen toxicity (C) is important but not the priority in this scenario. Drawing blood for blood gases (D) should be performed by healthcare professionals, not parents.
Question 3 of 5
A patient is admitted to your acute coronary care unit with the diagnosis of ACS. The nurse has seen ECG changes that are indicative of an anterior wall infarction and is observing the patient for signs/symptoms of complications. The nurse has noted the following vital sign trends: 1100-HR 92, RR 24, BP 140/88, Cardiac rhythm NSR 1115-HR 96, RR 26, BP 128/82, Cardiac rhythm NSR 1130-HR 104, RR 28, BP 102/68, Cardiac rhythm ST 1145-HR 120, RR 32, BP 80/52, Cardiac rhythm ST with frequent PVC's The nurse should be alert for which of the following complications? Choose all that apply.
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C - Cardiogenic shock. In this scenario, the vital sign trends indicate a progressive decline in blood pressure (BP) along with an increasing heart rate (HR) and respiratory rate (RR), which are signs of hemodynamic instability. Cardiogenic shock is a serious complication of acute coronary syndrome (ACS) and occurs when the heart is unable to pump enough blood to meet the body's demands. The decreasing BP and increasing HR in this patient suggest a failing cardiac output, leading to inadequate tissue perfusion and subsequent shock. Syncope (choice A) is possible but less likely given the progressive decline in vital signs. Pericarditis (choice B) typically presents with chest pain and ECG changes different from those seen in this case. Cardiac tamponade (choice D) is characterized by Beck's triad (muffled heart sounds, hypotension, and jugular venous distention), which is not evident in the vital sign trends provided.
Question 4 of 5
A nurse is assessing a client who may be in the early stages of dehydration. Early manifestations of dehydration include:
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A. In the early stages of dehydration, the body tries to conserve water, leading to sunken eyeballs due to decreased fluid volume and poor skin turgor as skin loses its elasticity. Thirst or confusion (choice B) occur in moderate dehydration. Increased heart rate with hypotension (choice C) is a sign of severe dehydration. Coma or seizures (choice D) are extreme manifestations of dehydration and do not typically occur in the early stages.
Question 5 of 5
The client is on hydrochlorothiazide and digoxin. What effect can the nurse expect?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Hydrochlorothiazide decreases potassium, increasing the risk of digoxin toxicity. Rationale: 1. Hydrochlorothiazide is a diuretic that can cause potassium loss. 2. Digoxin is a medication that requires adequate potassium levels for proper function. 3. Low potassium levels can potentiate the toxicity of digoxin, leading to adverse effects. Summary: A: Incorrect, hydrochlorothiazide does not increase digoxin levels. B: Incorrect, hydrochlorothiazide's potassium-lowering effect can increase digoxin toxicity. D: Incorrect, digoxin does not affect the effectiveness of hydrochlorothiazide.