ATI RN
ATI Nur 221 Med Surg Exam Cardiac Questions
Extract:
Question 1 of 5
The nurse identifies which of the following as the most common cause of a myocardial infarction?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Atherosclerosis is correct. It is the primary cause of myocardial infarction due to plaque buildup blocking coronary arteries, reducing oxygen to the heart. Obesity, hypertension, and diabetes are risk factors but not the direct cause.
Question 2 of 5
A nurse is caring for a client who has chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The client tells the nurse, 'I can feel the congestion in my lungs, and I certainly cough a lot, but I can't seem to bring anything up.' Which of the following actions should the nurse take to help this client with tenacious bronchial secretions?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Adequate hydration (2 to 3 L daily) thins mucus secretions, aiding expectoration. Semi-Fowler's position, oxygen therapy, and a low-salt diet do not directly address thick mucus.
Question 3 of 5
The nurse is assessing the client diagnosed with COPD. Which of the following would require immediate attention by the nurse?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Oxygen flowmeter set on 8 LPM is correct. High-flow oxygen can suppress the hypoxic drive in COPD clients, leading to respiratory depression. The nurse should immediately lower the oxygen to a safer level (typically 1-3 LPM) and monitor the client's respiratory status. Use of accessory muscles, thick white sputum, and barrel chest with clubbing are common in COPD but do not require immediate intervention compared to high oxygen flow.
Question 4 of 5
A nurse is assessing a client who has right-sided heart failure. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Hepatomegaly is correct. Right-sided heart failure leads to systemic venous congestion, which can cause liver enlargement (hepatomegaly), ascites, and peripheral edema. Dizziness is more commonly associated with left-sided heart failure due to decreased cardiac output. Crackles in the lungs and dry hacking cough are symptoms of left-sided heart failure due to pulmonary congestion.
Question 5 of 5
Which diagnostic test may be prescribed to evaluate for the presence of a pulmonary embolism?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: D-Dimer is correct. It detects fibrin degradation products, which are elevated in the presence of a blood clot, making it a useful screening test for pulmonary embolism. Stress testing, ECG, and pulmonary function testing are not specific for diagnosing pulmonary embolism.