ATI LPN
NCLEX Cardiovascular Questions Questions
Question 1 of 5
Which parameter indicates effectiveness of hydrochlorothiazide therapy for a patient who has been taking it for 10 years to treat hypertension?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Hydrochlorothiazide may be used alone as monotherapy to manage hypertension or in combination with other medications if not effective alone. After the first few weeks of therapy, the diuretic effect diminishes, but the antihypertensive effect remains.
Question 2 of 5
Which statement indicates a need for further teaching in a patient with heart failure taking digoxin?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Doubling a dose increases the risk of toxicity. Missed doses should not be made up.
Question 3 of 5
What should the nurse do if a patient receiving furosemide develops dizziness and lightheadedness when standing?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: These symptoms suggest orthostatic hypotension, a common side effect of diuretics like furosemide. The nurse should monitor blood pressure and potassium levels to prevent complications.
Question 4 of 5
The lub dub sound of the heart beating is the sound of:
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The distinct 'lub dub' sounds arise from the closing of the heart valves during the cardiac cycle.
Question 5 of 5
A 22 y/o male presents to the ED with weakness and BP = 84/37. Sodium = 132, potassium = 5.9. Patient is lightheaded. ACTH is elevated at baseline. Then, Cosyntropin 250 mcg is given by IM injection. At 60 mins, serum cortisol = 10 mcg/dL. Which of the following etiologies is most likely for this presentation?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The presentation and lab findings (low BP, hyponatremia, hyperkalemia, elevated ACTH, and inadequate cortisol response to Cosyntropin) suggest primary adrenal insufficiency (Addison's disease). The most common cause in developed countries is autoimmune adrenalitis. Tuberculosis is less common today, and metastasis or hemorrhage would typically have additional clinical clues.