ATI RN
ATI Med Surg Cardiac Exam Questions
Extract:
Question 1 of 5
A nurse is caring for a client diagnosed with atrial fibrillation who is receiving continuous IV heparin. Which of the following findings is the nurse's priority?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Sudden weakness suggests a possible stroke, a critical complication of atrial fibrillation requiring immediate action.
Question 2 of 5
A nurse is reviewing cardiac rhythms and heart blocks for a critical care course. The nurse is aware that which of the following describes first-degree heart block?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: First-degree heart block is characterized by a prolonged PR interval (>0.20 seconds) with regular rhythm.
Question 3 of 5
A nurse is caring for a client with heart failure (HF) and preparing to give a daily dose of Digoxin (Lanoxin). The nurse understands the rationale for giving this medication for HF is which of the following?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Digoxin, a positive inotrope, increases cardiac contractility, improving output in heart failure.
Question 4 of 5
A nurse is caring for a patient with a history of hypertension. The client reports compliance with the prescribed thiazide medication but is complaining of generalized weakness and palpitations. The nurse should monitor the client for which potential complications of diuretics?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Thiazide diuretics promote potassium loss, increasing the risk of hypokalemia, which can lead to cardiac dysrhythmias, palpitations, and weakness.
Question 5 of 5
A nurse is caring for a client in a critical care unit who is 4 hours post-operative coronary artery bypass surgery. The nurse performs the reassessment and suspects the client may be developing a pericardial effusion. What assessment findings would the nurse note in this case?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Diminished heart sounds are a key sign of pericardial effusion due to fluid accumulation in the pericardial sac muffling heart tones.