ATI RN
ATI n269 Med Surg Exam Questions
Extract:
Question 1 of 5
Which serum electrolyte value alerts the nurse to the possibility of hyperaldosteronism?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Hyperaldosteronism causes sodium retention and potassium excretion, leading to elevated serum sodium levels and low potassium levels. A serum potassium level of 2.5 mmol/L is indicative of hypokalemia, which is a classic finding in hyperaldosteronism.
Question 2 of 5
A patient with asthma is admitted with severe dyspnea and is unable to speak. The nurse finds that the patient looks drowsy and confused. Which other finding would the nurse expect?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Deteriorating arterial blood gas (ABG) results, with low oxygen levels (hypoxemia) and elevated carbon dioxide levels (hypercapnia), would be expected in a patient with severe asthma exacerbation. These signs indicate respiratory failure and the need for urgent intervention.
Question 3 of 5
A nurse is caring for a client who just had a flexible bronchoscopy. Which of the following nursing actions is appropriate?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Withhold food and liquids until the client's gag reflex returns: This is the most important action to prevent aspiration. After a bronchoscopy, the throat is anesthetized, and eating or drinking before the gag reflex returns increases the risk of aspiration.
Question 4 of 5
A staff nurse is teaching a client who has Addison's disease about the disease process. The client asks the nurse what causes Addison's disease. Which of the following responses should the nurse make?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: It is caused by the lack of production of aldosterone by the adrenal gland.: This is correct. Addison's disease, also known as primary adrenal insufficiency, is caused by the inability of the adrenal glands to produce sufficient aldosterone and cortisol, two critical hormones.
Question 5 of 5
After observing blood-tinged mucous when suctioning a patient who has just arrived on the medical-surgical unit after a laryngectomy, which action by the nurse is best?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Placing the patient in a lateral recovery position is the best immediate action. This position helps facilitate drainage of secretions, especially after a laryngectomy, which can reduce the risk of aspiration and airway obstruction. The blood-tinged mucus may be due to recent surgery and should be monitored for changes.