ATI LPN
Cardiovascular Assessment Questions Questions
Question 1 of 5
Which of the following is associated with inflammatory joint pain?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Prolonged morning stiffness improving with use is classic for inflammatory joint pain (e.g., RA), unlike mechanical pain (worse with use) or osteoarthritis features (bone hypertrophy, osteophytes), per rheumatologic diagnostic criteria.
Question 2 of 5
A patient with left-sided heart failure is having difficulty breathing. Which of the following is the most appropriate nursing intervention?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: High Fowler's position (C) elevates the head to reduce pulmonary congestion and ease breathing in left-sided heart failure.
Question 3 of 5
Which blood pressure(BP) finding by the nurse indicates that no changes in therapy are needed for a 48-yr-old patient with newly diagnosed hypertension?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The 8th Joint National Committee's recommended goal for antihypertensive therapy for a 30- to 59-yr-old patient with hypertension is a BP below 130/80 mm Hg. The BP of 98/56 mm Hg may indicate overtreatment of the hypertension and an increased risk for adverse drug effects. The other two blood pressures indicate a need for modifications in the patient's treatment.
Question 4 of 5
Which action will the nurse in the hypertension clinic take in order to obtain an accurate baseline blood pressure(BP) for a new patient?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The patient should be seated with the feet flat on the floor. The BP is obtained in both arms, and the results of the two arms are not averaged. The patient does not need to be in the supine position. The cuff should be deflated at 2 to 3 mm Hg per second.
Question 5 of 5
An older adult is newly diagnosed with primary hypertension and has just been started on a beta-blocker. The nurse's health education should include which of the following?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Elderly people have impaired cardiovascular reflexes and are more sensitive to postural hypotension. The nurse teaches patients to change positions slowly when moving from lying or sitting positions to a standing position, and counsels elderly patients to use supportive devices as necessary to prevent falls that could result from dizziness. Lifestyle changes, such as regular physical activity/exercise, and a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and low-fat dairy products, is strongly recommended. Increasing fluids in elderly patients may be contraindicated due to cardiovascular disease. Increased intracranial pressure is not a risk and activity should not normally be limited.