ATI RN
Cardiovascular System Exam Questions Questions
Question 1 of 5
What is a condition where the heart beats with an irregular or abnormal rhythm?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Arrhythmia. Arrhythmia refers to an irregular or abnormal heart rhythm. This is because the heart beats in a disorganized manner, which can lead to various health issues. Hypertension (B) is high blood pressure, not a heart rhythm issue. Tachycardia (C) is a condition where the heart beats too fast, not necessarily irregularly. Bradycardia (D) is when the heart beats too slowly, not necessarily irregularly. Therefore, Arrhythmia is the correct choice in this context.
Question 2 of 5
What is a condition where the blood flow to the brain is temporarily blocked, often referred to as a mini-stroke?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Transient ischemic attack (TIA). A TIA is a temporary blockage of blood flow to the brain, causing stroke-like symptoms that typically resolve within 24 hours. This is distinct from a full-blown stroke (choice B) which results in permanent damage. Aneurysm (choice C) is a bulge in a blood vessel, not a blockage. Myocardial infarction (choice D) is a heart attack, not related to brain blood flow. In summary, TIA best fits the description of a temporary blockage of blood flow to the brain, making it the correct choice.
Question 3 of 5
What test measures the pressure inside the arteries as the heart pumps blood?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Blood pressure test. This test measures the pressure inside the arteries during the heart's pumping cycle. It assesses systolic and diastolic pressure, indicating the force exerted by blood on artery walls. Pulse oximetry (B) measures oxygen saturation, not arterial pressure. Echocardiogram (C) is an ultrasound that assesses heart structure and function, not arterial pressure. Spirometry (D) measures lung function, not arterial pressure. Therefore, the blood pressure test is the most relevant choice for assessing arterial pressure.
Question 4 of 5
What is a condition where blood clots form in the deep veins, usually in the legs, and can travel to the lungs, causing serious complications?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Deep vein thrombosis (DVT). DVT is a condition where blood clots form in the deep veins, typically in the legs. These clots can dislodge and travel to the lungs, leading to a pulmonary embolism. Choice B, pulmonary embolism, is a complication of DVT, not the initial condition. Varicose veins (C) are enlarged, twisted veins usually visible on the skin surface, not deep veins. Peripheral artery disease (D) involves narrowed arteries, not blood clots in veins.
Question 5 of 5
What type of medication is used to relax the muscles around the airways and improve breathing in conditions like asthma and COPD?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Bronchodilator. Bronchodilators are used to relax the muscles around the airways, allowing them to open up and improve breathing in conditions like asthma and COPD. They work by widening the airways, making it easier to breathe. Corticosteroids (B) reduce inflammation, mucolytics (C) help loosen mucus, and antihistamines (D) are used for allergies and not specifically for relaxing muscles in the airways. Therefore, A is the correct choice for this question.