ATI RN
Cardiovascular System Exam Questions And Answers Questions
Question 1 of 5
What test measures the oxygen level in the blood, often used to monitor patients with respiratory or cardiovascular conditions?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Pulse oximetry. This test measures the oxygen saturation level in the blood by using a device called a pulse oximeter, which is commonly placed on a patient's finger. Pulse oximetry is non-invasive, quick, and reliable in assessing oxygen levels. Arterial blood gas (B) measures oxygen and carbon dioxide levels directly from arterial blood samples, but it is more invasive and requires a blood draw. Echocardiogram (C) is an ultrasound test that evaluates the heart's structure and function, not specifically oxygen levels. Chest X-ray (D) provides images of the lungs and chest area but does not directly measure oxygen levels in the blood.
Question 2 of 5
What is a condition where the lungs become stiff and scarred, making it difficult to breathe and get enough oxygen into the bloodstream?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Pulmonary fibrosis is the correct answer because it is a condition characterized by stiff and scarred lungs, leading to breathing difficulties and reduced oxygen intake. This occurs due to the formation of excessive connective tissue in the lungs, impairing their ability to expand and contract properly. Pulmonary edema is the accumulation of fluid in the lungs, not scarring. Pulmonary embolism is the blockage of a blood vessel in the lungs by a blood clot. Pulmonary hypertension is high blood pressure in the arteries of the lungs, not related to lung stiffness or scarring.
Question 3 of 5
This is a chronic condition where the heart is unable to pump enough blood to meet the body's needs.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Heart failure. In heart failure, the heart is unable to pump enough blood to meet the body's needs, leading to symptoms such as shortness of breath and fatigue. This condition can result from various causes like hypertension or heart attacks. Cardiomyopathy (B) refers to diseases of the heart muscle, which can lead to heart failure but is not the same thing. Myocarditis (C) is inflammation of the heart muscle, and pericarditis (D) is inflammation of the pericardium, both of which can cause heart failure but are not the primary condition described in the question.
Question 4 of 5
What is a surgical procedure to replace a damaged or diseased heart valve with a prosthetic valve?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Valve replacement. This surgical procedure involves replacing a damaged or diseased heart valve with a prosthetic valve to restore proper heart function. It is specifically targeted at addressing heart valve issues, making it the most appropriate choice. Angioplasty (B) is a procedure to open blocked arteries, not related to heart valve replacement. Stent placement (C) involves inserting a mesh tube to keep arteries open, not addressing heart valve issues. Bypass surgery (D) is performed to improve blood flow to the heart muscle, not focused on replacing heart valves. Thus, A is the correct choice for the given question.
Question 5 of 5
Which type of medication helps to reduce blood pressure by relaxing the blood vessels?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Calcium channel blocker. These medications work by blocking calcium from entering the smooth muscle cells of the blood vessels, causing them to relax and dilate, which leads to a decrease in blood pressure. ACE inhibitors (B) work by blocking the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II, causing blood vessels to dilate. Beta-blockers (C) decrease heart rate and contractility but do not directly relax blood vessels. Diuretics (D) increase urine output to lower blood volume and pressure but do not directly act on blood vessels.