ATI RN
ATI Med Surg Exam 3 Questions
Extract:
Question 1 of 5
A nurse is assisting with the care of a client who is 1 day postoperative following a thyroidectomy and reports severe muscle spasms of the lower extremities. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Determining calcium level addresses hypocalcemia, a thyroidectomy complication causing muscle spasms. Monitoring pulses, saline, or potassium do not address the issue.
Question 2 of 5
What should the nurse do first when a client with a head injury begins to have clear drainage from the nose?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Collecting the drainage first helps identify if it is cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) or nasal secretions and monitors its characteristics. Compressing nares may increase intracranial pressure. Decongestants may mask CSF leakage. Tilting the head back may cause aspiration or infection.
Question 3 of 5
A nurse in the ambulatory care unit is caring for a client after cataract extraction. The client suddenly complains of severe pain in the affected eye unrelieved by pain medications. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Notifying the surgeon first addresses potential complications like increased intraocular pressure. Reassuring the client, supine positioning, or documenting delays intervention.
Question 4 of 5
A client with multiple sclerosis is seen by the home health nurse and complains of severe fatigue. Which of the following is the most appropriate nursing intervention?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Scheduling periods of rest conserves energy, prevents exhaustion, and promotes recovery. Deep-breathing exercises may increase respiratory effort. Warm baths may worsen fatigue or cause heat intolerance. Multivitamins may not improve fatigue and could cause adverse effects.
Question 5 of 5
A nurse reviewing the laboratory of a client who had a total thyroidectomy discovers that his calcium level is 7 mg/dL. Which of the following client findings should the nurse expect?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Muscle tetany is expected with low calcium (hypocalcemia) post-thyroidectomy due to nerve and muscle hyperexcitability. Hypertension, diaphoresis, and increased thirst suggest other conditions like renal disease or diabetes.