ATI RN
Cardiovascular System Practice Questions Questions
Question 1 of 5
While obtaining patient histories, the nurse identifies that the patient with the highest risk for CAD is
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because the patient is a white woman aged 72 with a high blood pressure of 172/100 and physically inactive. Advanced age, high blood pressure, and physical inactivity are significant risk factors for coronary artery disease (CAD). Age is a non-modifiable risk factor, and hypertension and lack of physical activity are modifiable but critical factors contributing to CAD. Choice A is incorrect because although the patient is African American, has obesity, and high blood pressure, the age is younger than the patient in choice D. Choice B is incorrect as smoking and stress are risk factors but not as significant as age, high blood pressure, and physical inactivity. Choice C is incorrect since although the patient has high cholesterol and elevated blood pressure, the age and other risk factors are less significant compared to the patient in choice D.
Question 2 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 3 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 4 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.
Question 5 of 5
Which of the following determine the possibility of the client having coronary artery disease?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Chest Pain. Chest pain is a common symptom of coronary artery disease (CAD) due to inadequate blood supply to the heart. It is a key indicator for CAD diagnosis. Tachycardia (A) may be a symptom of CAD but not definitive. Hair loss (B) and numbness/tingling (D) are not typically associated with CAD. In summary, chest pain is a cardinal symptom of CAD, making it the most relevant choice among the options provided.