ATI RN
Cardiovascular System Practice Exam Questions
Question 1 of 5
Which of the following is a rare but serious condition where the pulmonary arteries become narrowed, increasing the blood pressure in the lungs?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Pulmonary hypertension. This condition is characterized by narrowing of the pulmonary arteries, leading to increased blood pressure in the lungs. Pulmonary embolism (B) is a blockage in one of the pulmonary arteries, not narrowing. Pulmonary fibrosis (C) involves scarring of lung tissue, not artery narrowing. Aortic stenosis (D) is a narrowing of the aortic valve, not the pulmonary arteries. Therefore, the correct choice is A.
Question 2 of 5
What type of medication is used to reduce inflammation in the airways and prevent asthma attacks?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Corticosteroid. Corticosteroids work by reducing inflammation in the airways, which is a key factor in asthma attacks. They help prevent asthma symptoms by decreasing swelling and mucus production in the airways. Bronchodilators (B) help to relax and widen the airways but do not target inflammation. Antihistamines (C) are used to treat allergies and do not directly address asthma inflammation. Mucolytics (D) help to thin mucus in the airways but do not specifically target airway inflammation in asthma.
Question 3 of 5
Which of the following is a chronic lung disease that results in the gradual destruction of the alveoli, causing difficulty breathing and reduced oxygen exchange?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Emphysema. Emphysema is characterized by the gradual destruction of the alveoli in the lungs, leading to difficulty breathing and reduced oxygen exchange. This destruction impairs the lung's ability to expand and contract properly, causing shortness of breath. Bronchitis (B) is inflammation of the bronchial tubes, not alveoli destruction. Pulmonary hypertension (C) is high blood pressure in the lungs, not alveoli destruction. Sarcoidosis (D) is an autoimmune disease causing inflammation in different organs, not specifically targeting the alveoli.
Question 4 of 5
Which test measures the electrical activity of the heart and can detect arrhythmias and other heart conditions?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG). An ECG measures the electrical activity of the heart, detecting arrhythmias and other heart conditions by recording the heart's electrical impulses. This test is non-invasive and provides valuable information about the heart's function. Chest X-ray (B) primarily shows the heart's size and shape, not electrical activity. MRI (C) and CT scan (D) are imaging tests that provide detailed anatomical images but do not directly measure heart electrical activity.
Question 5 of 5
Which medication is used to lower high blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: ACE inhibitor. ACE inhibitors work by dilating blood vessels to lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes. They also help protect the heart and improve its function. Beta-blockers (B) lower heart rate, diuretics (C) reduce fluid retention, and calcium channel blockers (D) relax blood vessels, but they do not offer the same comprehensive benefits for high blood pressure and cardiovascular health as ACE inhibitors.