ATI RN
Cardiovascular System Exam Questions Pdf Questions
Question 1 of 5
Which order should the nurse question?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: The addition of a beta blocker with digoxin. When combined, beta blockers can enhance the effects of digoxin, leading to an increased risk of bradycardia and heart block. This combination can also exacerbate digoxin toxicity. Therefore, the nurse should question the addition of a beta blocker with digoxin to prevent potential adverse effects. Incorrect choices: A: The addition of a loop diuretic with digoxin - Loop diuretics may lead to hypokalemia, which can increase the risk of digoxin toxicity. C: A digoxin dose of 0.125 mg per day - This is within the recommended dose range for digoxin and does not pose a significant concern. D: The addition of an ACE inhibitor with digoxin - ACE inhibitors are commonly used in combination with digoxin and do not typically interact negatively.
Question 2 of 5
The healthcare provider is monitoring a client on an ACE inhibitor. What lab value is most important to monitor?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Potassium. ACE inhibitors can cause hyperkalemia, so monitoring potassium levels is crucial to prevent potential life-threatening complications. High potassium levels can lead to cardiac arrhythmias. Sodium levels are not typically affected by ACE inhibitors. Creatinine is important to monitor for kidney function but not specific to ACE inhibitors. Calcium levels are not directly affected by ACE inhibitors.
Question 3 of 5
The client is being taught about the use of warfarin. What is the most important dietary instruction?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Avoid foods high in vitamin K. Warfarin is an anticoagulant that works by inhibiting vitamin K-dependent clotting factors. Consuming foods high in vitamin K can interfere with the effectiveness of warfarin. By avoiding these foods, the client can maintain consistent levels of the medication in their system. Choice B is incorrect as increasing vitamin K-rich foods can counteract the effects of warfarin. Choice C is incorrect as there is no need to avoid foods high in protein when taking warfarin. Choice D is incorrect as increasing calcium intake does not have a direct impact on warfarin therapy.
Question 4 of 5
The client is on enalapril (Vasotec) for hypertension. What side effect is most commonly associated with this medication?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Dry cough. Enalapril is an ACE inhibitor, which commonly causes a dry cough due to increased bradykinin levels. This side effect is well-documented in literature and can lead to medication non-adherence. Other choices (B) Hypotension, (C) Hyperkalemia, and (D) Headache are potential side effects of enalapril but are not as commonly associated as dry cough. Hypotension and hyperkalemia are more serious adverse effects that require monitoring, while headache is a less common side effect compared to dry cough.
Question 5 of 5
The nurse is caring for a client on amiodarone. What adverse effect is the nurse most concerned about?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Pulmonary toxicity. Amiodarone is known to cause potentially life-threatening pulmonary toxicity, including interstitial pneumonitis and pulmonary fibrosis. The nurse must closely monitor the client for signs such as cough, dyspnea, and chest pain. Liver toxicity (B), thyroid dysfunction (C), and renal dysfunction (D) are also possible adverse effects of amiodarone, but pulmonary toxicity is the most concerning due to its severe and rapid progression. Monitoring and early detection are crucial to prevent serious complications.