ATI RN
ATI Detailed Answer Key Medical Surgical Questions
Question 1 of 5
What is the priority intervention for a patient admitted to your unit diagnosed with advanced amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Communication becomes critical as ALS progresses and affects motor functions.
Question 2 of 5
How should the nurse respond to Mrs. West’s statement, “Oh well, I have already lived my life anyway.”
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Encouraging the patient to express feelings fosters trust and understanding.
Question 3 of 5
A physician is monitoring intravenous fluids for someone who is currently being treated for metabolic acidosis. The physician monitors his signs and symptoms typical of metabolic acidosis which include:
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is Hypotension, altered heart rate, elevated respiratory rate, and muscle weakness (B). Metabolic acidosis causes the body to compensate by increasing respiratory rate to blow off CO2, leading to hyperventilation. Other symptoms include hypotension, altered heart rate, and muscle weakness due to electrolyte imbalances.
Question 4 of 5
A client with emphysema is being cared for by a nurse. Which of the following findings should the nurse not expect to assess in this client?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Step 1: Emphysema causes impaired gas exchange, leading to dyspnea (A) due to difficulty breathing. Step 2: Emphysema results in hyperinflation of the lungs, causing a barrel chest (C) due to increased chest diameter. Step 3: Clubbing of the fingers (D) is a sign of chronic hypoxia, commonly seen in emphysema. Step 4: Bradycardia (B) is not typically associated with emphysema; tachycardia is more common due to the body compensating for hypoxia.
Question 5 of 5
A client is in the immediate postoperative period following a partial laryngectomy. Which of the following parameters should the nurse assess first?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Airway patency. Assessing airway patency is the priority in the immediate postoperative period following a laryngectomy to ensure the client's ability to breathe. If the airway is compromised, it can lead to life-threatening complications. Pain severity (A), wound drainage (B), and tissue integrity (C) are important assessments but are secondary to ensuring the client's airway is clear and functioning properly. Prioritizing airway patency allows for prompt intervention if any issues arise, ensuring the client's safety and optimal recovery.