ATI RN
ATI Med Surg Exam N300 Exam Day Questions
Extract:
Question 1 of 5
When considering the pharmacologic management of a patient who has sustained a traumatic head injury, the nurse can anticipate a prescription for which of the following medications to manage increases in intracranial pressure (ICP)?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Hypertonic saline (3% Normal Saline) is used to reduce intracranial pressure by drawing fluid out of the brain tissue and into the bloodstream, which can help prevent cerebral edema.
Question 2 of 5
The nurse is caring for a patient in the ICU with a diagnosis of acute closed head injury whose intracranial pressure (ICP) is 30mmHg. What is the priority action by the nurse?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Notifying the physician and raising the head of the bed helps to reduce ICP by promoting venous drainage. An ICP of 30 mmHg is critically high, requiring immediate intervention.
Question 3 of 5
The nurse is caring for a patient in the acute care setting with a spinal cord injury (SCI) at the level of C-3. What is the main cause of complications or death related to this injury?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Respiratory compromise is the primary cause of complications or death in patients with a high cervical spine injury (C-3 and above) due to loss of innervation to the diaphragm and intercostal muscles, which impairs spontaneous breathing.
Question 4 of 5
A patient diagnosed with a seizure disorder tells the nurse that they feel like they have 'butterflies' in their stomach. The patient has felt this in the past before having a seizure. The nurse recognizes that this feeling is:
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: An aura is a perceptual disturbance experienced by some patients with seizure disorders that precedes a seizure. It can manifest as various sensations, including gastrointestinal feelings like 'butterflies,' which serve as a warning sign.
Question 5 of 5
The nurse is caring for a patient receiving a continuous albuterol nebulizer for an acute asthma attack. Which arterial blood gas result would indicate that the treatment has been effective?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: A pH within the normal range, a PaCO2 within the normal range, and an improved PaO2 level suggest effective treatment for an asthma attack, indicating adequate gas exchange and resolution of respiratory distress.