ATI RN
health assessment exam 2 test bank Questions
Question 1 of 9
What is the correct interpretation of a drumlike sound heard during percussion of the abdomen?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct interpretation of a drumlike sound heard during percussion of the abdomen is that it indicates air-filled areas within the abdomen. This sound, known as tympany, occurs when air is present in the gastrointestinal tract or hollow organs. Percussion produces a resonant, drum-like sound over these air-filled areas. This is a normal finding during a physical examination. Incorrect Answers: A: Constipation does not typically produce a drumlike sound during percussion. Constipation may cause a dull sound due to fecal matter retention. C: The presence of a tumor would not cause a drumlike sound during percussion. Tumors are typically solid masses and would produce a dull sound during percussion. D: Dense organs such as the liver or spleen would produce a dull sound, not a drumlike sound, during percussion due to their solid nature.
Question 2 of 9
A nurse is caring for a patient with diabetes who is experiencing hypoglycemia. The nurse should prioritize which of the following interventions?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Providing a source of fast-acting carbohydrate. In hypoglycemia, the priority is to quickly raise the patient's blood sugar levels to prevent potential complications like seizures or loss of consciousness. Fast-acting carbohydrates, such as glucose tablets or juice, can rapidly increase blood sugar levels. Administering insulin (A) would further lower blood sugar levels, worsening the situation. Administering an oral hypoglycemic agent (C) is not appropriate in an acute hypoglycemic episode. Monitoring blood pressure (D) is important but not the priority in this situation.
Question 3 of 9
A 23-year-old patient is in the clinic and appears anxious. Her speech is rapid. She is fidgety and in constant motion. Which of the following questions or statements would be most appropriate for the nurse to use in this situation to assess attention span?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because it involves a specific and observable task that assesses attention span. By asking the patient to perform a physical action that requires focus and coordination, the nurse can directly evaluate the patient's ability to follow instructions and maintain attention. This task also helps to assess motor skills and coordination, which can be affected in certain conditions associated with anxiety and restlessness. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because they do not directly assess attention span. Choice A focuses on emotions and behavior rather than attention. Choice B assesses memory recall rather than attention span. Choice C tests comprehension and interpretation skills related to a phrase, but it does not evaluate attention span directly.
Question 4 of 9
During her prenatal checkup, a patient begins to cry as the nurse asks her about previous pregnancies. The patient says that she is remembering her last pregnancy, which ended in miscarriage. The nurse's best response to her crying would be:
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because it shows empathy and validation towards the patient's emotions. By acknowledging the patient's sadness and giving her permission to cry, the nurse creates a safe and supportive environment. This response helps the patient feel understood and accepted, facilitating emotional expression and potentially leading to a deeper therapeutic relationship. Choice A is incorrect because it focuses on the nurse's discomfort rather than the patient's feelings. Choice C is incorrect as it may come across as dismissive of the patient's emotions. Choice D is incorrect as it suggests avoiding the topic rather than addressing the patient's feelings directly.
Question 5 of 9
A nurse is caring for a patient with a history of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The nurse should monitor for which of the following signs of exacerbation?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because increased sputum production and shortness of breath are classic signs of exacerbation in COPD. This indicates worsening airflow limitation and potential respiratory distress. Monitoring these signs helps in early intervention and preventing further complications. B: Improved oxygen saturation is not a sign of exacerbation in COPD. It would actually suggest improvement in the patient's condition. C: Increased energy levels are not typical signs of exacerbation in COPD. Patients usually experience fatigue and weakness during exacerbations. D: Decreased respiratory rate is not indicative of exacerbation in COPD. It could be a sign of respiratory depression or sedation, but not exacerbation.
Question 6 of 9
A nurse is caring for a patient who is post-operative following abdominal surgery. The nurse should prioritize which of the following interventions to prevent complications?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A. Encouraging early ambulation and use of compression stockings is crucial post-abdominal surgery to prevent complications like deep vein thrombosis and pneumonia. Ambulation helps prevent blood clots and promotes lung expansion. Compression stockings aid in preventing blood pooling in the legs. Administering pain medication regularly (B) is important but not the priority. Monitoring for infection (C) is essential but not the priority immediately post-op. Providing nutritional support and hydration (D) is important but not as critical as preventing immediate complications.
Question 7 of 9
A nurse is caring for a patient who is post-operative following a knee replacement. The nurse should monitor for signs of which of the following complications?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Deep vein thrombosis (DVT). After knee replacement surgery, the patient is at a higher risk for developing DVT due to immobility and altered blood flow. Monitoring for signs such as calf pain, swelling, and redness is crucial to prevent complications like pulmonary embolism. Pulmonary embolism (Choice A) is a potential complication of untreated DVT. Gastrointestinal bleeding (Choice B) is not directly related to knee replacement surgery. Hypoglycemia (Choice D) is not a common complication post-knee replacement. Monitoring for DVT is essential in preventing life-threatening complications for the patient.
Question 8 of 9
A nurse is caring for a patient with a history of stroke. The nurse should monitor the patient for signs of:
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Atrial fibrillation. Patients with a history of stroke are at an increased risk of atrial fibrillation, a common cause of ischemic stroke. Monitoring for signs of atrial fibrillation such as irregular heartbeat, palpitations, dizziness, and chest discomfort is crucial for early detection and prevention of recurrent strokes. Pulmonary embolism (A), chronic kidney disease (C), and sepsis (D) are not directly associated with a history of stroke and would not be the primary focus of monitoring in this case.
Question 9 of 9
The nurse is performing a health assessment on a 16-year-old girl, who has been brought to the clinic by her parents. Which of the following instructions would be appropriate for the parents before the interview begins?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because it respects the girl's privacy and allows her to speak freely without parental influence. By asking the parents to step out, the nurse creates a safe space for the girl to discuss any sensitive issues. Choice A may inhibit the girl's honest communication. Choice B risks the parents dominating the conversation. Choice C may make the girl uncomfortable discussing personal matters in front of her parents.