ATI RN
Cardiovascular System Exam Questions
Question 1 of 5
What is a condition where the arteries that supply blood to the heart muscle become hardened and narrowed due to the buildup of plaque?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis is the condition where arteries supplying blood to the heart become hardened and narrowed due to plaque buildup, leading to decreased blood flow and potential heart issues. Aneurysm (B) is the weakening and bulging of an artery wall, not related to plaque buildup. Arrhythmia (C) is an irregular heartbeat, not directly related to arterial blockages. Peripheral artery disease (D) involves narrowing of arteries in the limbs, not specifically related to the heart. Thus, Atherosclerosis is the most fitting choice for the given condition.
Question 2 of 5
Which of the following is a chronic lung disease that includes conditions such as chronic bronchitis and emphysema, characterized by obstructed airflow from the lungs?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). COPD is characterized by chronic bronchitis and emphysema, leading to obstructed airflow from the lungs. Chronic bronchitis involves inflammation of the bronchial tubes, while emphysema damages the air sacs in the lungs. Pulmonary fibrosis (B) is scarring of lung tissue, not obstructed airflow. Asthma (C) is a condition where airways narrow and swell, not necessarily leading to obstructed airflow. Pneumonia (D) is an infection in the lungs, not a chronic disease causing obstructed airflow.
Question 3 of 5
What is the condition where the heart's mitral valve does not close properly, allowing blood to leak backward into the left atrium?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Mitral regurgitation. In this condition, the mitral valve fails to close properly, causing blood to flow back into the left atrium during ventricular contraction. This results in decreased forward blood flow and increased volume in the left atrium and ventricle. Mitral regurgitation can lead to symptoms like fatigue, shortness of breath, and heart murmur upon auscultation. Now, let's analyze the other choices: B: Aortic stenosis - This involves narrowing of the aortic valve, obstructing blood flow from the left ventricle to the aorta. C: Tricuspid regurgitation - Involves backward flow of blood from the right ventricle to the right atrium due to a faulty tricuspid valve. D: Pulmonary hypertension - Elevated blood pressure in the pulmonary arteries, usually caused by underlying conditions affecting the lungs or heart. Therefore, the correct answer is A because it specifically describes
Question 4 of 5
The nurse is caring for a heart client on digoxin and notes a potassium level of 2.5. What is the appropriate priority nursing intervention?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because low potassium levels can increase the risk of digoxin toxicity. Digoxin and potassium have a reciprocal relationship, so low potassium levels can lead to digoxin toxicity. Checking the digoxin level is important to monitor for toxicity. A is incorrect because a potassium level of 2.5 is low and requires intervention. B is not the appropriate action as giving potassium without checking the digoxin levels first can worsen toxicity. D is incorrect because abruptly stopping digoxin can be harmful and should only be done under the guidance of a healthcare provider.
Question 5 of 5
In cases of myocardial infarction leading to shock, which medication is appropriate to counteract shock?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Dopamine. In myocardial infarction leading to shock, dopamine is appropriate due to its positive inotropic effects, increasing cardiac output and blood pressure. Atropine is not indicated for shock in this context. Digoxin may be contraindicated in acute myocardial infarction. Adenosine is not used in managing shock.