ATI RN
Rn Vital Signs Assessment ATI Questions
Question 1 of 5
The sac that surrounds and protects the heart is called the:
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Pericardium. The pericardium is the sac that surrounds and protects the heart. It consists of two layers - the outer fibrous pericardium and the inner serous pericardium. The fibrous pericardium provides structural support and protection, while the serous pericardium secretes fluid to reduce friction as the heart beats. Summary: B: Myocardium is the middle layer of the heart muscle responsible for pumping blood. C: Endocardium is the innermost layer of the heart lining the chambers and valves. D: Pleural space refers to the space between the lungs and the chest wall, not related to the heart.
Question 2 of 5
Jim is a 47-year-old man who is having difficulties with sexual function. He is recently separated from his wife of 20 years. He notes that he has early morning erections but otherwise cannot function. Which of the following is a likely cause for his problem?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Psychological issues. Jim's recent separation and inability to function sexually suggest a psychological cause, such as depression or anxiety. Early morning erections indicate physical capability, ruling out choices A, C, and D. Decreased testosterone levels (A) would not selectively affect sexual function, abnormal hypogastric arterial circulation (C) would lead to consistent erectile dysfunction, and impaired neural innervation (D) would affect all aspects of sexual function, not just specific situations. Therefore, psychological issues are the most likely cause for Jim's problem.
Question 3 of 5
During an assessment of an older adult, the nurse should expect to notice which finding as a normal physiologic change associated with the aging process?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C. As individuals age, their peripheral blood vessels tend to become more rigid, leading to an increase in systolic blood pressure. This is a normal physiologic change associated with aging due to the loss of elasticity in the blood vessels. This change is commonly seen in older adults and is a result of the natural aging process. Choice A is incorrect because hormonal changes in older adults do not typically cause vasodilation leading to a drop in blood pressure. Choice B is incorrect as progressive atrophy of intramuscular calf veins is not a normal physiologic change associated with aging. Choice D is also incorrect as narrowing of the inferior vena cava does not typically occur as a normal part of the aging process, leading to low blood flow and varicosities.
Question 4 of 5
The nurse is describing a weak, thready pulse on the documentation flow sheet. Which statement is correct?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because a weak, thready pulse is defined as being hard to palpate, may fade in and out, and can be easily obliterated by pressure. This indicates a pulse that is difficult to feel, lacks consistency, and may disappear with minimal pressure. Choice A is incorrect as a weak, thready pulse is not easily palpable and does not pound under the fingertips. Choice B is incorrect as it describes a pulse with greater than normal force that suddenly collapses, which is indicative of a bounding pulse, not a weak, thready pulse. Choice D is incorrect as it describes a pulse with varying force between beats, which is not characteristic of a weak, thready pulse.
Question 5 of 5
Mrs. Lenzo weighs herself every day with a very accurate balance-type scale. She has noticed that over the past 2 days she has gained 4 pounds. How would you best explain this?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C. Body fluid fluctuations can cause weight changes on a daily basis. Factors like water retention or dehydration can lead to temporary weight gain or loss. Mrs. Lenzo's 4-pound increase in 2 days is likely due to variations in body fluid levels rather than overeating, clothing, or instrument inaccuracy. It's important to consider physiological factors before jumping to conclusions.