ATI RN
Cardiovascular System Exam Questions Questions
Question 1 of 5
What test measures the electrical activity of the heart over a period of time, typically 24 to 48 hours?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Holter monitor. A Holter monitor is a device that measures the electrical activity of the heart over an extended period, usually 24 to 48 hours. It is used to detect abnormal heart rhythms and assess how the heart responds to daily activities. Explanation: 1. The Holter monitor records the heart's electrical activity continuously, providing a detailed analysis of any irregularities. 2. Unlike an echocardiogram, which uses sound waves to create images of the heart, the Holter monitor focuses on monitoring electrical signals. 3. A stress test evaluates the heart's performance under physical stress, not over an extended period like the Holter monitor. 4. Arterial blood gas (ABG) measures oxygen and carbon dioxide levels in the blood, not the heart's electrical activity. In summary, the Holter monitor is the correct choice as it specifically measures the heart's electrical activity over an extended timeframe, distinguishing it from the other options.
Question 2 of 5
What type of imaging test uses X-rays to visualize the blood vessels after injecting them with a contrast dye?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Angiography. Angiography is the imaging test that uses X-rays to visualize blood vessels by injecting contrast dye. This dye highlights the blood vessels, allowing for clear visualization on X-ray images. Angiography is specifically designed to provide detailed images of the blood vessels and identify any blockages or abnormalities. B: CT scan uses X-rays but does not involve injecting contrast dye into blood vessels. C: MRI uses magnetic fields and radio waves, not X-rays. D: Ultrasound uses sound waves, not X-rays or contrast dye to visualize blood vessels.
Question 3 of 5
What is the term used to describe a condition where the blood flow to the brain is temporarily interrupted, often referred to as a 'mini-stroke'?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Transient ischemic attack (TIA). A TIA is a temporary interruption of blood flow to the brain, causing stroke-like symptoms that usually resolve within 24 hours. It is often referred to as a 'mini-stroke' because the symptoms are similar to a stroke but last for a shorter duration. Explanation: 1. TIA specifically describes a temporary interruption of blood flow to the brain, aligning with the scenario described in the question. 2. Stroke (Choice B) refers to a more severe and lasting interruption of blood flow to the brain, not a temporary one as seen in a TIA. 3. Myocardial infarction (Choice C) refers to a heart attack, which involves blockage of blood flow to the heart muscle, not the brain. 4. Pulmonary embolism (Choice D) is a blockage of an artery in the lungs, not related to blood flow interruption to the brain. In summary,
Question 4 of 5
What is a surgical procedure where a blood vessel is grafted to bypass a blocked coronary artery, improving blood flow to the heart muscle?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Coronary artery bypass graft (CABG). This surgical procedure involves grafting a blood vessel to bypass a blocked coronary artery, improving blood flow to the heart muscle. It is used to treat severe coronary artery disease. Valve replacement (B) is a surgery to replace heart valves, not to bypass blocked arteries. Angioplasty (C) involves inserting a balloon to widen a narrowed artery, not bypassing it. Endarterectomy (D) is a procedure to remove plaque from an artery, not bypassing a blocked coronary artery.
Question 5 of 5
The client asks about side effects of taking digoxin. How does the nurse respond?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Anorexia can be a side effect of digoxin. Digoxin is known to cause anorexia due to its impact on the gastrointestinal system. It can lead to nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite, resulting in anorexia. Tachycardia (choice B) is not a common side effect of digoxin, as it is actually used to treat certain types of arrhythmias. Constipation (choice C) and urinary retention (choice D) are also not typically associated with digoxin use. In summary, anorexia is a known side effect of digoxin, while tachycardia, constipation, and urinary retention are not commonly linked to this medication.