ATI RN
Assessing Vital Signs ATI Questions
Question 1 of 5
Which of the following is the most effective type of transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) stimulator?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: High frequency, low intensity. High-frequency TENS (typically 80-100 Hz) is effective for acute pain by stimulating the release of endorphins and enkephalins, blocking pain signals. Low-intensity avoids muscle contraction, providing pain relief without discomfort. High intensity may cause muscle contractions and discomfort. Low frequency (2-10 Hz) TENS is more suitable for chronic pain, not as effective for acute pain.
Question 2 of 5
Josh is a 14-year-old boy who presents with a sore throat. On examination, you notice dullness in the last intercostal space in the anterior axillary line on his left side with a deep breath. What does this indicate?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Step 1: Dullness in the last intercostal space in the anterior axillary line on the left side suggests possible splenomegaly. Step 2: The dullness indicates an abnormality in that area and warrants further examination to confirm the presence of an enlarged spleen. Step 3: Option B is correct as it acknowledges the possibility of splenomegaly and emphasizes the need for close attention to further examination. Step 4: Options A and C are incorrect as they assert the presence of an enlarged spleen without confirming it, leading to unnecessary workup. Step 5: Option D is incorrect as it definitively states the spleen is normal, which contradicts the physical examination findings.
Question 3 of 5
The nurse is teaching a class on basic assessment skills. Which of these statements is true regarding the stethoscope and its use?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because the statement accurately describes the function of a stethoscope. A stethoscope doesn't magnify sound but rather blocks out extraneous room noise to allow for clear auscultation. This is essential for accurate assessment. Choice A is incorrect as the slope of the earpieces should point towards the nose, not the occiput. Choice C is incorrect because fit and quality are crucial for accurate auscultation, not just the ability to magnify sound. Choice D is incorrect as there isn't an ideal tubing length specified for all stethoscopes, and the focus should be on optimal sound transmission rather than dampening sound.
Question 4 of 5
Which of the following findings during palpation of the abdomen is considered abnormal?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Firmness over the left upper quadrant. This finding is abnormal as the left upper quadrant should normally be soft on palpation. Firmness could indicate an underlying issue such as organ enlargement or inflammation. A: Soft, non-tender abdomen is normal. C: Generalized tympany on percussion is also normal as it indicates air-filled intestines. D: No palpable masses is a normal finding as well. Therefore, B is the correct answer as it deviates from the expected normal abdominal palpation findings.
Question 5 of 5
Which assessment finding is most consistent with left-sided heart failure?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Crackles in the lungs. Left-sided heart failure typically results in fluid buildup in the lungs, leading to crackles upon auscultation. This occurs due to the impaired ability of the left side of the heart to adequately pump blood, causing fluid to leak into the lungs. Peripheral edema (A) is more indicative of right-sided heart failure, where blood backs up in the systemic circulation. Jugular vein distension (B) is a sign of increased central venous pressure, often seen in right-sided heart failure. Ascites (D) is the accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity and is more commonly associated with liver or kidney disease rather than heart failure.