ATI LPN
Nursing Health Assessment Questions Questions
Question 1 of 5
When taking frequent vital signs on a postoperative patient, the NAP uses an electronic blood pressure machine and obtains a blood pressure of 188/70 mm Hg. She appropriately notifies the nurse of the value, and the nurse checks the patient. The patient is awake and alert and offers no complaints. The nurse uses a stethoscope and obtains a blood pressure of 112/80 mm Hg. How does the nurse explain the difference in values?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: A cuff that is too small overestimates BP (188/70 vs. 112/80) because it requires more pressure to compress the artery, leading to falsely high readings. A loose cuff or one over clothing typically underestimates BP; a large cuff might slightly underestimate but not to this degree.
Question 2 of 5
The main principle of body mechanics in nursing is to:
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Proper body mechanics align the body to reduce strain and prevent injury to nurse and patient. Ignoring technique (A), comfort (C), or prioritizing speed (D) increases risk.
Question 3 of 5
When serving meals to a patient who is unable to feed themselves, the nurse should:
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Upright positioning prevents aspiration. Speed (A) risks choking, any position (B) may be unsafe, and no assistance (D) neglects needs.
Question 4 of 5
The lithotomy position is most commonly used for:
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Lithotomy (legs elevated, apart) is for gynecological access. It’s not for respiratory (A), rectal (B), or cardiac (D) care.
Question 5 of 5
When recording a patient's vital signs, the nurse should include:
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Vital signs (BP, pulse, temp, respiration) assess core health. Others (B, C, D) are additional, not routine vitals.