ATI RN
Cardiovascular System Exam Questions Pdf Questions
Question 1 of 5
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 5
What is a chronic condition where the blood pressure in the arteries is persistently elevated, increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Hypertension. Hypertension is characterized by persistently elevated blood pressure, which increases the risk of heart disease and stroke. This condition is commonly referred to as high blood pressure. Hypotension (B) is the opposite, indicating low blood pressure. Hyperlipidemia (C) is high levels of fats in the blood, not directly related to blood pressure. Hyperglycemia (D) is high blood sugar levels, also not directly related to blood pressure. Therefore, based on the definition and associated health risks, A is the correct choice.
Question 3 of 5
What is the procedure where a catheter is used to open a blocked or narrowed coronary artery, often involving the placement of a stent?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Angioplasty. During angioplasty, a catheter with a balloon at its tip is used to open a blocked or narrowed coronary artery. The balloon is inflated to widen the artery and improve blood flow. Often, a stent is placed during the procedure to help keep the artery open. Option B, valve replacement, is incorrect as it involves replacing a faulty heart valve, not opening a blocked coronary artery. Option C, stent placement, is close but not specific to the procedure of using a catheter and balloon. Option D, CABG, is a surgical procedure where arteries or veins are used to bypass blocked coronary arteries, not using a catheter.
Question 4 of 5
Which of the following is a chronic condition where the heart muscle is weakened and unable to pump blood effectively, often leading to heart failure?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Rationale: 1. Dilated cardiomyopathy (A) is characterized by the heart muscle becoming weak and enlarged, leading to ineffective pumping. 2. Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (B) involves thickened heart muscle but not necessarily weakened. 3. Restrictive cardiomyopathy (C) involves stiffening of the heart muscle, not necessarily weakening. 4. Myocarditis (D) is inflammation of the heart muscle, not specifically related to chronic weakening and heart failure. Therefore, A is the correct answer as it directly relates to the weakened heart muscle leading to ineffective pumping and heart failure.
Question 5 of 5
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.