ATI RN
Vital Signs Physical Assessment Techniques Questions
Question 1 of 5
When assessing a newborn infant who is 5 minutes old, the nurse knows which of these statements to be true?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because at birth, the opening in the atrial septum known as the foramen ovale allows blood to bypass the lungs and flow from the right atrium to the left atrium. This is essential as the lungs are not functional until the baby takes its first breath. The closure of the foramen ovale typically occurs within minutes to hours after birth as the pressure changes in the heart and lungs. Choice A is incorrect because the right ventricle is typically larger and weighs more than the left ventricle in a newborn due to the lower pressure needed to pump blood to the lungs. Choice B is incorrect as the circulation of a newborn is different from that of an adult, with shunts and openings that close or change soon after birth. Choice D is incorrect as the foramen ovale closes gradually over time after birth, not just minutes before, and the ductus arteriosus closes within a few days after birth, not immediately.
Question 2 of 5
Frank is a 24-year-old man who presents with multiple burning erosions on the shaft of his penis and some tender inguinal adenopathy. Which of the following is most likely?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Herpes simplex. Frank's presentation of burning erosions on the penis and inguinal adenopathy is classic for genital herpes. Primary syphilis (A) typically presents with a painless chancre at the site of infection. Chancroid (C) presents with painful genital ulcers and inguinal lymphadenopathy. Gonorrhea (D) usually manifests with urethritis and discharge, not erosions on the penis. In this case, the key features of burning erosions and inguinal adenopathy point towards herpes simplex as the most likely diagnosis.
Question 3 of 5
The nurse is preparing to perform a modified Allen test. Which is an appropriate reason for this test?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: To evaluate the adequacy of collateral circulation before cannulating the radial artery. The modified Allen test is performed to assess the patency of the ulnar artery and the adequacy of collateral circulation before cannulating the radial artery for procedures like arterial blood gas sampling or arterial line insertion. By compressing both the ulnar and radial arteries and releasing pressure on the ulnar artery, the nurse can observe how quickly the hand regains its color, indicating efficient collateral circulation. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect as they do not align with the purpose of the modified Allen test, which specifically focuses on evaluating collateral circulation in the hand.
Question 4 of 5
Which one of the following physical examination descriptions would be most consistent with the diagnosis of cholecystitis?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because cholecystitis typically presents with tenderness in the right upper quadrant (RUQ) due to inflammation of the gallbladder. The tenderness worsening with inspiration (Murphy's sign) indicates irritation of the peritoneum overlying the inflamed gallbladder. This is a classic finding in cholecystitis. Choices A, B, and D do not describe the characteristic RUQ tenderness with inspiration seen in cholecystitis. Choice A describes a normal abdomen, choice B suggests appendicitis, and choice D points more towards gastritis or pancreatitis.
Question 5 of 5
Adam is a very successful 15-year-old student and athlete. His mother brings him in today because he no longer studies, works out, or sees his friends. This has gone on for a month and a half. When you speak with him alone in the room, he states it "would be better if he were not here." What would you do next?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Assess his suicide risk. Given Adam's statement about it being better if he were not here and his recent behavioral changes, there are clear signs of potential suicidal ideation. It is crucial to prioritize assessing his immediate safety. This involves asking direct questions about suicide, assessing the presence of a suicide plan, means, and intent. This step is essential in ensuring Adam's safety and providing appropriate support and intervention if needed. Other choices are incorrect because: A: Offering vague reassurance about his promising future does not address the immediate concerns of potential suicide risk. B: Jumping to prescribing antidepressants without a thorough evaluation and risk assessment is premature and does not address the urgency of the situation. C: Speaking with his mother about getting him together with friends overlooks the seriousness of Adam's statement and the need for immediate intervention.