ATI RN
ATI Detailed Answer Key Medical Surgical Questions
Question 1 of 5
What precaution should a nurse take to minimize the risk of death when using potassium chloride to flush a lock or central venous catheter?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because concentrated potassium chloride can cause cardiac arrest if injected rapidly.
Question 2 of 5
What instruction should the nurse give a client with glaucoma?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Heavy lifting can increase intraocular pressure, exacerbating glaucoma.
Question 3 of 5
A healthcare professional is assessing a client who has a fracture of the femur. Vital signs are obtained on admission and again in 2 hours. Which of the following changes in assessment should indicate to the healthcare professional that the client could be developing a serious complication?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Step 1: Increased respiratory rate from 18 to 44/min indicates potential respiratory distress, a serious complication post-fracture. Step 2: Rapid breathing can signify hypoxemia, pulmonary embolism, or infection, requiring immediate intervention. Step 3: Increased oral temperature and blood pressure within normal range are not as critical as respiratory distress. Step 4: A slight increase in heart rate is common after a fracture and not indicative of a serious complication.
Question 4 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.
Question 5 of 5
The patient asks when she should take bisphosphonate medications for treatment of osteoporosis. You tell her
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Bisphosphonates require specific administration guidelines to enhance absorption.