ATI RN
ATI N200 Med Surg Exam Questions
Extract:
Question 1 of 5
While assessing a client with status asthmaticus, the nurse notes diminished breath sounds in all lung fields and the client is becoming confused. The nurse should prepare the client for:
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Severe respiratory failure (diminished sounds, confusion) requires mechanical ventilation (
B). Testing (
A), x-ray (
C), and low-flow oxygen (
D) are inadequate.
Question 2 of 5
A patient is prescribed alendronate at 0800 for the treatment of osteoporosis. As the nurse you know you must administer this medication:
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The patient should not lie down after taking alendronate, as it increases the risk of esophageal irritation. Alendronate should be taken on an empty stomach, and while dairy products should generally be avoided when taking certain medications, this specific instruction applies more to calcium or iron supplements. Alendronate should be taken on an empty stomach, ideally first thing in the morning, with a full glass of water to enhance absorption. The patient must remain upright for 30 minutes to prevent esophageal irritation and reduce the risk of esophageal ulcers. The medication should not be taken with milk or juice, as they can interfere with absorption.
Question 3 of 5
A client diagnosed with cervical spine degeneration has undergone a laminectomy. Which intervention should the nurse implement?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Measuring drainage from the Jackson-Pratt drain is important, but this is not the primary intervention to address post-laminectomy complications. The patient should generally be positioned in a neutral, stable position, but not specifically prone with knees elevated, which may be uncomfortable or inappropriate for the cervical region. Narcotics may be required for pain control, especially postoperatively, so advising the patient to avoid them is inappropriate. Following a cervical spine laminectomy, the nurse should assess the client for any signs of nerve or spinal cord injury, such as difficulty speaking or breathing. These symptoms may indicate spinal cord compression or other complications.
Question 4 of 5
The nurse is attempting to assist a cognitively-impaired adult to maintain bladder continence. Which intervention is most appropriate?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Incontinence briefs are appropriate for overnight use but do not encourage independence in bladder management during the day. Providing easy-to-remove clothing is a practical intervention that enhances the client's independence in managing toileting, especially if they have cognitive impairments. It ensures that the client can quickly respond to the urge to urinate. Explaining the use of a call bell is helpful but may not be the most appropriate approach for a cognitively-impaired client who may forget or struggle with communication. Asking the client every two hours if they need to urinate is helpful but may not be as effective as providing easy access to clothing for quick toileting.
Question 5 of 5
A client has been treated for low back pain which radiates down the posterior right leg. The client now has a new onset of urinary and bowel incontinence and weakness in both lower extremities. What is the nurse's first action?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Obtaining a walker does not address the acute neurological symptoms. Applying a diaper addresses the incontinence but not the underlying cause. Inserting a Foley catheter manages urinary incontinence but delays necessary evaluation. Notifying the physician is critical as these symptoms suggest cauda equina syndrome, a surgical emergency.