ATI RN
ATI Medical Surgical Proctored Exam Questions
Question 1 of 5
When caring for a client with acute renal failure, which laboratory value is most important to monitor?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Serum potassium. In acute renal failure, impaired kidney function can lead to electrolyte imbalances, especially hyperkalemia which can be life-threatening. Monitoring serum potassium levels is crucial to prevent cardiac complications. Serum sodium (A) may be altered, but potassium is more critical. Serum calcium (C) and chloride (D) levels are important but not as directly impacted in acute renal failure compared to potassium.
Question 2 of 5
A healthcare professional is assessing a client who has a new onset of confusion. Which laboratory value should the professional check first?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Blood glucose level. The healthcare professional should check the blood glucose level first because hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia can cause confusion. Hypoglycemia can lead to altered mental status quickly and should be ruled out immediately. Checking the serum sodium level (B), serum calcium level (C), or blood urea nitrogen (D) can be important in further assessment, but addressing the blood glucose level is the primary concern in this scenario to rule out any immediate life-threatening conditions related to glucose imbalance.
Question 3 of 5
A client is scheduled for a colonoscopy and receiving education from a healthcare provider. Which statement by the client indicates a need for further teaching?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because the statement indicates a need for further teaching. The client should avoid solid foods for a specific period, usually 24 hours, before a colonoscopy to ensure a clear view of the colon. This helps the healthcare provider to perform the procedure effectively and reduces the risk of complications. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because having clear liquids up to 2 hours before, taking a laxative the night before, and being sedated during the procedure are all standard preparations for a colonoscopy and do not indicate a need for further teaching.
Question 4 of 5
A client with cirrhosis is experiencing ascites. Which dietary instruction should the nurse provide?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Consume a low-sodium diet. Ascites in cirrhosis is often due to fluid retention caused by impaired liver function. A low-sodium diet helps to reduce fluid buildup in the body, alleviating ascites. Increasing protein intake (A) may worsen ascites by increasing fluid retention. Limiting fluid intake (B) can lead to dehydration, exacerbating the condition. Taking a daily multivitamin (D) may be beneficial for overall health but does not directly address ascites.
Question 5 of 5
When caring for a client with acute pancreatitis, what intervention is most appropriate?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Administer pain medication as needed. In acute pancreatitis, pain management is crucial to provide comfort and improve outcomes. Pain medication helps alleviate the severe abdominal pain associated with pancreatitis. It is essential to treat pain promptly to prevent complications and improve the client's quality of life. Encouraging a high-protein diet (A) is not recommended as it may exacerbate pancreatitis symptoms. Providing small, frequent meals (C) may help reduce the workload on the pancreas, but pain management takes precedence. Increasing oral fluid intake (D) is important for hydration but does not address the primary concern of pain relief in acute pancreatitis.