ATI RN
Cardiovascular System Exam Questions Pdf Questions
Question 1 of 9
What procedure involves using a catheter to create a small scar in the heart tissue to block abnormal electrical signals and restore normal heart rhythm?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Catheter ablation. This procedure involves using a catheter to create a small scar in the heart tissue to block abnormal electrical signals and restore normal heart rhythm. First, the catheter is guided to the heart through blood vessels. Then, using various techniques such as radiofrequency energy or freezing, the abnormal tissue causing the irregular heartbeat is destroyed to restore the heart's normal rhythm. Choice B, Angioplasty, involves opening blocked or narrowed blood vessels to improve blood flow, not addressing abnormal heart rhythms. Choice C, Stent placement, involves inserting a mesh tube to keep arteries open, not related to treating abnormal electrical signals in the heart. Choice D, Valve replacement, is a procedure to replace damaged heart valves, not specifically targeting abnormal electrical signals in the heart.
Question 2 of 9
This is the inflammation of the heart's inner lining, usually caused by an infection.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Endocarditis. Endocarditis is the inflammation of the heart's inner lining, often due to an infection. "Endo-" refers to the inner lining of the heart (endocardium) and "-itis" denotes inflammation. Myocarditis (B) is inflammation of the heart muscle, pericarditis (C) is inflammation of the outer lining of the heart, and valvulitis (D) is inflammation of the heart valves. Endocarditis specifically targets the inner lining, making it the correct choice.
Question 3 of 9
Which term refers to the ability of the heart to initiate impulses repetitively and spontaneously?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Automaticity. Automaticity refers to the ability of the heart to generate electrical impulses spontaneously, without external stimulation. This allows the heart to initiate its own contractions independently of external influences. Contractility (A) refers to the ability of the heart muscle to contract in response to an electrical stimulus. Excitability (B) refers to the ability of cardiac cells to respond to an electrical stimulus. Rhythmicity (D) refers to the regularity of the heart's electrical impulses. Thus, C is the correct answer as it specifically addresses the heart's ability to generate impulses spontaneously.
Question 4 of 9
When administering an ACE inhibitor to a client with heart failure, what is the expected outcome of this medication?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Increased cardiac output. ACE inhibitors work by dilating blood vessels and reducing the workload on the heart. This leads to improved cardiac output, as the heart can pump more efficiently. Decreased blood pressure (choice A) is a common side effect due to vasodilation. Increased heart rate (choice B) and decreased heart rate (choice D) are not expected outcomes of ACE inhibitor use. Therefore, the most appropriate and expected outcome of administering an ACE inhibitor in heart failure is an increase in cardiac output, making choice C the correct answer.
Question 5 of 9
In developing a plan of care in relation to Mr. Robertson's diuretic therapy, it would be most important to
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Hypokalemia is a common side effect of diuretics.
Question 6 of 9
Which disease is characterized by the damage to the alveoli in the lungs, leading to breathlessness?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Emphysema. This disease is characterized by the destruction of alveoli, leading to breathlessness. Emphysema is typically caused by smoking, resulting in the breakdown of lung tissue and reduced oxygen exchange. Pulmonary fibrosis (B) involves scarring of lung tissue, not alveolar damage. Lung cancer (C) is characterized by the growth of abnormal cells in the lung, not alveolar destruction. Lung abscess (D) is a localized infection in the lung, not related to alveolar damage causing breathlessness.
Question 7 of 9
Which order should the nurse question?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: The addition of a beta blocker with digoxin. When combined, beta blockers can enhance the effects of digoxin, leading to an increased risk of bradycardia and heart block. This combination can also exacerbate digoxin toxicity. Therefore, the nurse should question the addition of a beta blocker with digoxin to prevent potential adverse effects. Incorrect choices: A: The addition of a loop diuretic with digoxin - Loop diuretics may lead to hypokalemia, which can increase the risk of digoxin toxicity. C: A digoxin dose of 0.125 mg per day - This is within the recommended dose range for digoxin and does not pose a significant concern. D: The addition of an ACE inhibitor with digoxin - ACE inhibitors are commonly used in combination with digoxin and do not typically interact negatively.
Question 8 of 9
Two weeks later, Mr. Cook returns with normal blood pressure readings. Your evaluation of this situation would be
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Weight loss and medication contribute to effective blood pressure control.
Question 9 of 9
What is a chronic condition where the heart is unable to pump blood efficiently, leading to fluid buildup in the lungs and other parts of the body?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Step 1: Heart failure is a chronic condition where the heart is unable to pump blood efficiently. Step 2: This inefficiency leads to fluid buildup in the lungs (pulmonary congestion) and other parts of the body. Step 3: Cardiomyopathy is a broad term for diseases that affect the heart muscle but may not necessarily result in heart failure. Step 4: Pericarditis is inflammation of the pericardium, the sac surrounding the heart, not directly related to heart pumping efficiency. Step 5: Aortic stenosis is a condition where the aortic valve narrows, affecting blood flow from the heart but not necessarily leading to heart failure.