ATI RN
Cardiovascular System Practice Questions Questions
Question 1 of 5
Which parameter is elevated in right- sided heart failure?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: CVP (Central Venous Pressure). In right-sided heart failure, the right side of the heart fails to pump effectively, leading to increased pressure in the venous system. CVP reflects the pressure in the vena cava close to the right atrium, thus elevated in right-sided heart failure. B: Left-ventricular end-diastolic pressure is elevated in left-sided heart failure. C: PAWP (Pulmonary Artery Wedge Pressure) is elevated in left-sided heart failure. D: Cardiac output is typically decreased in heart failure, not elevated.
Question 2 of 5
In preparing the patient for insertion of a pulmonary artery catheter, the nurse
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because continuous ECG monitoring is crucial during pulmonary artery catheter insertion to detect any arrhythmias or changes in cardiac status promptly. This ensures the patient's safety and allows for immediate intervention if needed. Obtaining informed consent (choice A) is important but not specific to this procedure. Placing the patient in a high Fowler's position (choice B) may be necessary for comfort but is not directly related to the insertion process. Performing an Allen test (choice D) is not typically required for pulmonary artery catheter insertion.
Question 3 of 5
You have given morphine sulfate 4 mg IV to a patient who is having an AMI. When evaluating the response 5 minutes after giving the medication, which of these data indicate a need for immediate further action?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because a significant drop in respiratory rate from 18 to 12 breaths/minute after administering morphine sulfate can indicate respiratory depression, a serious side effect. This requires immediate attention to prevent further complications like hypoxia or respiratory arrest. Choices A, C, and D do not indicate immediate need for action as a slight decrease in blood pressure, feeling lightheaded, and mild chest pain are expected side effects of morphine administration and can be managed with appropriate interventions.
Question 4 of 5
As the manager of a cardiac surgery unit, you are responsible for developing a standardized care plan for the post-operative care of patients having cardiac surgery. Which of these nursing activities included in the care plan will need to be done by an RN?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because developing an individual plan for discharge teaching based on discharge medications and needed lifestyle changes requires critical thinking, assessment, and evaluation skills, which are within the scope of practice of a registered nurse (RN). RNs are trained to assess patients' needs, plan and implement care, and evaluate outcomes. Removing dressings (choice A) and administering medications (choice D) are tasks that can be delegated to other healthcare team members such as licensed practical nurses or nursing assistants. Reinforcing patient and family teaching (choice B) can also be done by other healthcare team members under the supervision of an RN.
Question 5 of 5
Which of the following blood vessels is commonly affected by thrombophlebitis?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because veins deep in the lower extremities are commonly affected by thrombophlebitis due to factors like immobility, obesity, and venous stasis. Thrombophlebitis refers to inflammation of a vein with the formation of a blood clot. The lower extremities are more prone to this condition as blood flow is slower in the veins of the legs compared to the upper extremities. Popliteal vein of the leg (choice C) is a specific vein in the lower extremities commonly affected. Veins deep in the upper extremities (choice A) are less commonly affected. Veins connected to the heart (choice D) are arteries, not veins, and are not typically affected by thrombophlebitis.