ATI RN
ATI Detailed Answer Key Medical Surgical Questions
Question 1 of 5
Which physical assessment finding should be reported to the physician?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is option C) Bulging red or blue tympanic membrane, which should be reported to the physician. This finding indicates a potential medical concern, such as an ear infection or inflammation, that requires prompt evaluation and treatment to prevent further complications. Option A) Pearly gray or pink tympanic membrane is a normal and healthy appearance of the eardrum, so there is no need to report this to the physician. Option B) Dense, whitish ring at the circumference of the tympanum could indicate scarring or calcification, which may not be an urgent issue requiring immediate physician notification. Option D) A cone of light at the innermost part of the tympanum is a normal and expected finding in a healthy eardrum, so there is no cause for concern or need for reporting to the physician. Educationally, understanding normal and abnormal findings during a physical assessment is crucial for healthcare professionals to provide quality patient care. Recognizing abnormal signs like a bulging red or blue tympanic membrane helps in early detection and intervention, ultimately improving patient outcomes. Reporting such findings promptly ensures timely management and prevents potential complications.
Question 2 of 5
The most important laboratory value to monitor in a patient with heavy bleeding due to fibroids is:
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: In a patient experiencing heavy bleeding due to fibroids, the most important laboratory value to monitor is hemoglobin (Option A). Hemoglobin is crucial because it reflects the oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood. Heavy bleeding can lead to a significant drop in hemoglobin levels, resulting in anemia and tissue hypoxia. Monitoring hemoglobin levels helps assess the severity of blood loss and guides the need for blood transfusions or other interventions to stabilize the patient's condition. Luteinizing hormone (Option B) is not relevant in this context as it is primarily involved in the regulation of reproductive function, not in assessing the impact of bleeding on a patient's hemodynamic status. White blood cell count (Option C) is important for evaluating infection or inflammation, which are not the primary concerns in a patient with heavy bleeding from fibroids. Potassium (Option D) is essential for monitoring electrolyte balance, but it is not the most critical parameter in a patient with acute blood loss. Educationally, understanding the significance of monitoring hemoglobin levels in patients with heavy bleeding emphasizes the importance of recognizing and managing acute blood loss effectively. It underscores the need for prompt assessment and intervention to prevent complications associated with anemia and hypovolemia. By prioritizing hemoglobin monitoring, healthcare providers can optimize patient outcomes and ensure timely and appropriate care for individuals experiencing significant blood loss.
Question 3 of 5
A client is 1-day postoperative following a left lower lobectomy and has a chest tube in place. When assessing the client's three-chamber drainage system, the nurse notes that there is no bubbling in the suction control chamber. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Verify that the suction regulator is on and check the tubing for leaks. Rationale: 1. Lack of bubbling in the suction control chamber indicates suction may not be working. 2. Checking the suction regulator ensures it is on and at the correct level for proper drainage. 3. Checking tubing for leaks ensures the system is intact and functioning properly. 4. This intervention addresses the potential issue of inadequate suction, which can affect the client's postoperative recovery. Summary: - Option A: Continuing to monitor is not appropriate as lack of bubbling suggests an issue with suction. - Option B: Adding more water to the suction control chamber is unnecessary and does not address the root cause. - Option D: Milking the chest tube is not recommended as it can cause trauma and dislodging clots may lead to complications.
Question 4 of 5
When admitting a client with active tuberculosis to a room on a medical-surgical unit, which of the following room assignments should the nurse make?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: a room with air exhaust directly to the outdoor environment. This is to prevent the spread of tuberculosis to other patients and healthcare workers. Tuberculosis is an airborne disease, so proper ventilation is crucial. Choice B is incorrect as placing the client with another nonsurgical client may increase the risk of transmission. Choice C is not ideal as the ICU may have other vulnerable patients. Choice D is also incorrect as the proximity to the nurses' station does not address the need for proper ventilation to prevent the spread of tuberculosis.
Question 5 of 5
A client with emphysema is being cared for by a nurse. Which of the following findings should the nurse not expect to assess in this client?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Step 1: Emphysema causes impaired gas exchange, leading to dyspnea (A) due to difficulty breathing. Step 2: Emphysema results in hyperinflation of the lungs, causing a barrel chest (C) due to increased chest diameter. Step 3: Clubbing of the fingers (D) is a sign of chronic hypoxia, commonly seen in emphysema. Step 4: Bradycardia (B) is not typically associated with emphysema; tachycardia is more common due to the body compensating for hypoxia.