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 in the intensive care unit is receiving teaching before removal of an endotracheal tube. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include in the teaching?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Avoid speaking for extended periods. This instruction is important to prevent strain on the vocal cords and reduce the risk of aspiration or airway irritation post-extubation. Speaking after the removal of the endotracheal tube can potentially lead to complications. Step-by-step rationale: 1. Speaking can cause strain on the vocal cords, which may lead to hoarseness or damage. 2. It is essential to allow the airway to recover and prevent irritation or inflammation. 3. Resting the voice can aid in the healing process and reduce the risk of complications. 4. Incentive spirometer use (option B) is important for lung expansion but not directly related to vocal cord rest. 5. Vital signs monitoring (option D) is crucial but does not address vocal cord care or prevention of complications. 6. Resting in a side-lying position (option A) is not directly related to vocal cord rest or post-extubation care.
Question 3 of 9
The nurse explains to the patient that the primary purpose of such a record is to
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Electronic health records centralize patient data, ensuring all providers have access to complete and up-to-date information.
Question 4 of 9
Tom is diagnosed with congestive heart failure and asks why fluid accumulates in his lungs. You respond by saying
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Left-sided heart failure leads to pulmonary congestion as blood backs up in the lungs.
Question 5 of 9
A healthcare provider is assessing a client immediately after the removal of the endotracheal tube. Which of the following findings should the provider report to the healthcare provider?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Stridor. Stridor is a high-pitched, harsh respiratory sound that indicates airway obstruction, which can be life-threatening post endotracheal tube removal. Copious oral secretions (B), hoarseness (C), and sore throat (D) are common after endotracheal tube removal but do not indicate immediate airway compromise. Reporting stridor is crucial for prompt intervention to prevent respiratory distress.
Question 6 of 9
Which signs and symptoms of lithium toxicity should a nurse monitor for?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Vomiting is a common early sign of lithium toxicity, indicating the need for immediate medical attention.
Question 7 of 9
Patients with rheumatoid arthritis typically have pain
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: RA pain worsens with activity due to joint inflammation.
Question 8 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 9 of 9
14. A patient newly diagnosed with type 2 diabetes has been given a prescription to start on an oral hypoglycemic. The patient tells the nurse she would rather control her blood sugar with herbal therapy. Which action should the nurse take?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Referring the patient to her physician (option A) ensures that any decision regarding herbal therapy is made collaboratively and safely.