HESI RN
Cardiovascular System Exam Questions
Question 1 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 2 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.
Question 3 of 5
The client on amiodarone develops pulmonary fibrosis. What action should the nurse take?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Step-by-step rationale: 1. Pulmonary fibrosis is a serious side effect of amiodarone. 2. Immediate notification of the healthcare provider is necessary to address this potentially life-threatening complication. 3. The healthcare provider will need to evaluate the client's condition, consider alternative treatments, and adjust the care plan accordingly. Summary of incorrect choices: B. Continuing the medication without intervention can worsen the pulmonary fibrosis. C. Discontinuing the medication is necessary, but oxygen therapy alone may not address the underlying issue. D. Reducing the dose may not be sufficient to manage the pulmonary fibrosis and delaying provider notification can lead to further complications.
Question 4 of 5
The client on spironolactone should avoid which of the following?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Foods high in potassium. Spironolactone is a potassium-sparing diuretic that can increase potassium levels in the body. Consuming foods high in potassium while taking spironolactone can lead to hyperkalemia, a serious condition characterized by high levels of potassium in the blood. The other choices (B: Foods high in sodium, C: Foods high in calcium, D: Foods high in chloride) are not directly contraindicated with spironolactone use. Sodium intake is typically restricted in patients taking diuretics, but it is not specifically related to spironolactone. Calcium and chloride levels are not significantly affected by spironolactone, so foods high in these minerals do not need to be avoided.
Question 5 of 5
The client on atorvastatin (Lipitor) should be advised to report which of the following symptoms?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Muscle pain. Atorvastatin can cause muscle pain as a side effect, which may progress to a serious condition called rhabdomyolysis. This requires immediate medical attention. Headache, nausea, and dizziness are less common side effects of atorvastatin and generally not as serious as muscle pain in this context. Reporting muscle pain promptly can help prevent complications and ensure appropriate management.