ATI RN
Cardiovascular System Exam Questions And Answers Questions
Question 1 of 5
Which test measures how well the lungs work by assessing the amount of air the lungs can hold and how quickly air can be exhaled?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Spirometry. Spirometry measures lung function by evaluating lung capacity and airflow. It assesses vital parameters like Forced Vital Capacity (FVC) and Forced Expiratory Volume in 1 second (FEV1), providing valuable insights into lung health. Pulse oximetry (B) measures oxygen saturation, not lung function. Arterial blood gas (C) evaluates blood oxygen and carbon dioxide levels, not lung capacity. Chest X-ray (D) shows lung structure, not lung function. Therefore, Spirometry is the most appropriate test for assessing lung function.
Question 2 of 5
Which condition is characterized by the weakening and rupture of the walls of the alveoli in the lungs, reducing the surface area available for gas exchange?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Rationale: Emphysema is characterized by weakening and rupture of alveoli walls, reducing gas exchange surface area. This leads to shortness of breath and decreased oxygen levels. Bronchitis involves inflammation of bronchial tubes, not alveoli. Atelectasis is the collapse of lung tissue, not alveoli weakening. Pulmonary fibrosis is scarring of lung tissue, not alveoli rupture. Therefore, A is correct due to its direct association with alveoli damage.
Question 3 of 5
What test measures the oxygen level in the blood, often used to monitor patients with respiratory or cardiovascular conditions?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Pulse oximetry. This test measures the oxygen saturation level in the blood by using a device called a pulse oximeter, which is commonly placed on a patient's finger. Pulse oximetry is non-invasive, quick, and reliable in assessing oxygen levels. Arterial blood gas (B) measures oxygen and carbon dioxide levels directly from arterial blood samples, but it is more invasive and requires a blood draw. Echocardiogram (C) is an ultrasound test that evaluates the heart's structure and function, not specifically oxygen levels. Chest X-ray (D) provides images of the lungs and chest area but does not directly measure oxygen levels in the blood.
Question 4 of 5
Which condition is characterized by the sudden onset of shortness of breath, often occurring at night and associated with heart failure?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnea. This condition is characterized by sudden onset of shortness of breath at night, often associated with heart failure. It occurs when a person lies down due to fluid redistribution in the body, leading to increased pressure on the lungs and heart. Sleep apnea (B) is a separate condition characterized by pauses in breathing during sleep. Orthopnea (C) is difficulty breathing while lying flat, relieved by sitting up. Dyspnea (D) is a general term for shortness of breath but does not specifically refer to the sudden onset at night associated with heart failure.
Question 5 of 5
What is a condition where the lungs become stiff and scarred, making it difficult to breathe and get enough oxygen into the bloodstream?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Pulmonary fibrosis is the correct answer because it is a condition characterized by stiff and scarred lungs, leading to breathing difficulties and reduced oxygen intake. This occurs due to the formation of excessive connective tissue in the lungs, impairing their ability to expand and contract properly. Pulmonary edema is the accumulation of fluid in the lungs, not scarring. Pulmonary embolism is the blockage of a blood vessel in the lungs by a blood clot. Pulmonary hypertension is high blood pressure in the arteries of the lungs, not related to lung stiffness or scarring.