ATI RN
Medical Surgical ATI Proctored Exam Questions
Question 1 of 9
When preparing a client for transfer to the ICU for placement of a pulmonary artery catheter, the nurse should explain that this catheter is used to monitor which of the following conditions?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Hemodynamic status. A pulmonary artery catheter is used to monitor hemodynamic parameters such as cardiac output, pulmonary artery pressure, and central venous pressure. This helps assess the patient's circulatory status and guide interventions in critically ill patients. Explanation: 1. Pulmonary artery catheter measures cardiac output and helps in assessing the heart's ability to pump blood effectively. 2. It provides information on pulmonary artery pressure which reflects the pressure in the right side of the heart and pulmonary circulation. 3. Central venous pressure is also monitored, indicating the fluid status and right heart function. Summary: A: Intracranial pressure - Incorrect. Pulmonary artery catheter does not monitor intracranial pressure. B: Spinal cord perfusion - Incorrect. Pulmonary artery catheter does not monitor spinal cord perfusion. C: Renal function - Incorrect. Pulmonary artery catheter does not monitor renal function.
Question 2 of 9
A client is experiencing episodes of hyperventilation related to the surgery scheduled for tomorrow. The appropriate nursing action to help control hyperventilation is to:
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: An adult Valium dosage for treatment of anxiety is 2-10 mg PO from two to four times daily. As written, the order would place a client at risk for an overdose. A high room temperature could increase the hyperventilating episodes by stimulating the respiratory system. Holding one's breath and breathing into a paper bag may be useful in controlling hyperventilation. Both measures increase CO2 retention. Distraction will not prevent or control hyperventilation, which is caused by anxiety or fear.
Question 3 of 9
What is the most common cause of vitreous hemorrhage?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Vitreous hemorrhage can result from various causes, with diabetic retinopathy being a significant contributor.
Question 4 of 9
The nurse walks into a client's room and finds the client lying still and silent on the floor. The nurse should first
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Checking responsiveness is the first step in assessing the situation.
Question 5 of 9
A home health nurse visits a client who has COPD and receives oxygen at 2 L/min via nasal cannula. The client reports difficulty breathing. Which of the following actions is the nurse's priority?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Assess the client's respiratory status. This is the priority because the client is experiencing difficulty breathing, which could indicate a worsening of their condition. By assessing the respiratory status, the nurse can gather vital information to determine the appropriate next steps, such as adjusting the oxygen flow rate, providing respiratory treatments, or seeking further medical intervention. Increasing the oxygen flow without assessing the client's condition could potentially exacerbate the issue. Calling emergency services (choice C) may be necessary based on the assessment findings but should not be the immediate priority. Having the client cough and expectorate secretions (choice D) is important for airway clearance but is not the priority when the client is in distress.
Question 6 of 9
A client reports a headache and vertigo after turning on his furnace for the first time this season. The nurse should suspect which of the following conditions?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Carbon monoxide poisoning. When the furnace is turned on for the first time, it may release carbon monoxide, a colorless and odorless gas that can cause headaches and vertigo. Carbon monoxide binds to hemoglobin, reducing oxygen delivery to tissues, leading to symptoms. Heat stroke (B) is caused by prolonged exposure to high temperatures. Hypersensitivity reactions (C) involve the immune system's response to an allergen. Oxygen toxicity (D) occurs with prolonged exposure to high levels of oxygen.
Question 7 of 9
When making a home visit to a client with chronic pyelonephritis, which nursing action has the highest priority?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Monitoring antibiotic effectiveness is crucial in managing pyelonephritis.
Question 8 of 9
What are the criteria for diagnosing systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS)?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Dehydration results from fluid loss exceeding intake, causing symptoms like dry mucous membranes, poor skin turgor, and hypotension.
Question 9 of 9
What cultural elements should a nurse ask about or observe when performing a cultural assessment on a client?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Comprehensive cultural assessments include health beliefs, dietary preferences, and communication styles to tailor care appropriately.