ATI RN
Health Assessment Practice Questions Questions
Question 1 of 9
What is the priority action for a client with an open chest wound?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Apply a sterile dressing. Firstly, cover the wound with a sterile occlusive dressing to prevent air from entering the pleural space, reducing the risk of tension pneumothorax. This also helps to prevent infection and further complications. Administering morphine (B) or nitroglycerin (D) is not the priority in this situation as managing the chest wound is crucial. Applying an airtight dressing (C) may lead to tension pneumothorax if not done properly. Therefore, the immediate action should be to apply a sterile dressing to stabilize the wound and prevent further complications.
Question 2 of 9
During a well-baby checkup, the nurse notices that a 1-week-old infant's face looks small, compared with an enlarged cranium. On further examination, the nurse also notes dilated scalp veins and downcast, or"setting sun," eyes. What condition does the nurse suspect?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Hydrocephalus. The nurse suspects hydrocephalus due to the symptoms presented by the infant: enlarged cranium, small face, dilated scalp veins, and "setting sun" eyes. Hydrocephalus is the abnormal accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid in the brain, leading to increased intracranial pressure and characteristic physical signs such as an enlarged head. Craniotabes (A) is softening of the skull bones, not associated with these symptoms. Microcephaly (B) is characterized by a smaller head size, opposite to what is described in the question. Caput succedaneum (D) is swelling of the soft tissues of the infant's scalp, which is unrelated to the symptoms mentioned.
Question 3 of 9
The nurse is obtaining history for a 3-month-old infant. During the interview, the mother states,"I think she is getting her first tooth because she has started drooling a lot." The nurse's best response would be:
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because drooling is a common sign of teething in infants. The nurse's response should validate the mother's observation to build trust and rapport. Choice B is incorrect because teething can start as early as 3 months. Choice C is incorrect as drooling is a normal developmental milestone in infants. Choice D is incorrect as infants do not consciously control saliva production.
Question 4 of 9
What is the most effective intervention for a client experiencing a panic attack?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because lorazepam is a fast-acting medication that can help reduce the intensity of a panic attack quickly. It works by calming the central nervous system and reducing anxiety symptoms. Encouraging slow, deep breathing (choice A) can be helpful, but it may not be as effective as medication in stopping a severe panic attack. Lying down (choice C) can provide comfort but does not address the underlying physiological response. Breathing into a paper bag (choice D) can actually be harmful as it may lead to hyperventilation.
Question 5 of 9
The nurse is preparing to do an otoscopic examination on a 2-year-old child. Which of the following reflects correct procedure?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Tilt the child's head slightly toward the examiner. This position straightens the ear canal, facilitating visualization. Pulling the pinna down (A) can cause discomfort and obstruct the view. Pulling the pinna up and back (B) is incorrect for a child under 3 years old as it straightens the ear canal in adults. Having the child touch his chin to his chest (D) is unnecessary and may lead to improper examination positioning.
Question 6 of 9
What should be the first step in managing a client with suspected spinal cord injury?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct first step is to immobilize the spine (A) in a suspected spinal cord injury to prevent further damage. This helps to stabilize the spine and prevent any potential movement that could worsen the injury. Providing pain relief (B) should come after immobilization. Assessing for signs of spinal shock (C) is important but comes after immobilization. Placing the client in a supine position (D) can be part of immobilization but is not the first step.
Question 7 of 9
The nurse would plan to use the Nipissing District Developmental Screen with a child who is:
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A (3 years old) because the Nipissing District Developmental Screen is specifically designed for children aged 1 month to 6 years to assess their developmental milestones. It focuses on various areas of development appropriate for this age group, such as motor skills, language, social interaction, and cognitive abilities. Using this tool with a 3-year-old child allows for early identification of potential developmental delays or concerns. Incorrect choices: B (16 years old) - The Nipissing District Developmental Screen is not intended for children above 6 years old. C (8 years old with a developmental delay) - The tool is primarily for early screening, not for children already identified with developmental delays. D (Having difficulty with gross motor skills) - While this child may benefit from assessment, the Nipissing Screen is a comprehensive tool for overall development, not just specific skill deficits.
Question 8 of 9
What is the most appropriate action when a client presents with acute abdominal pain?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Monitor blood pressure. When a client presents with acute abdominal pain, monitoring blood pressure is crucial as it can help assess for potential complications like hypovolemic shock or internal bleeding. Changes in blood pressure may indicate worsening condition and prompt the need for immediate intervention. Monitoring vital signs (A) is important but blood pressure takes precedence in this scenario. Assessing abdominal tenderness (B) is valuable but does not directly address potential life-threatening issues. Monitoring for dehydration (D) is also important but not the most immediate concern in the case of acute abdominal pain.
Question 9 of 9
Which action is most important for a nurse caring for a client with a suspected spinal cord injury?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Immobilize the client. This is crucial to prevent further damage to the spinal cord. Moving a client with a suspected spinal cord injury can worsen the injury and lead to permanent damage. Immobilizing the client helps maintain spinal alignment and reduces the risk of paralysis. Providing pain relief (B) and loosening clothing (D) are important but secondary actions. Applying pressure to the chest (C) is not recommended for a suspected spinal cord injury as it can also exacerbate the injury.