ATI RN
ATI Detailed Answer Key Medical Surgical
1. A client with emphysema is being cared for by a nurse. Which of the following findings should the nurse not expect to assess in this client?
- A. Dyspnea
- B. Bradycardia
- C. Barrel chest
- D. Clubbing of the fingers
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Emphysema is a chronic lung condition characterized by shortness of breath (dyspnea), a barrel-shaped chest due to hyperinflation of the lungs (barrel chest), and clubbing of the fingers (enlargement of fingertips). Bradycardia (slow heart rate) is not typically associated with emphysema. In emphysema, the primary focus is on respiratory complications rather than cardiac issues.
2. A client underwent a total laryngectomy. Which of the following is the priority observation in the client's care?
- A. Patency of the intravenous line
- B. Level of pain
- C. Integrity of the dressing
- D. Need for suctioning
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Following a total laryngectomy, maintaining a clear airway is crucial to prevent complications such as airway obstruction due to secretions or blood clots. Monitoring the need for suctioning takes precedence to ensure the client's airway remains patent. While monitoring pain levels, IV line patency, and dressing integrity are important aspects of care, ensuring adequate airway clearance through suctioning is the priority in this scenario.
3. What information should be included as effective for preventing chronic bronchitis in a community presentation?
- A. Maintenance of ideal weight
- B. Annual influenza immunization
- C. Smoking cessation
- D. Regular moderate exercise
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Chronic bronchitis is often linked to smoking. Smoking cessation is the most effective preventive measure to reduce the risk of developing chronic bronchitis. Smoking damages the airways and leads to inflammation, making individuals more susceptible to chronic bronchitis. While maintaining an ideal weight, getting an annual influenza vaccine, and engaging in regular moderate exercise are beneficial for overall health, the most crucial intervention to prevent chronic bronchitis is quitting smoking.
4. A client with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD 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?
- A. Maintaining a semi-Fowler's position as often as possible
- B. Administering oxygen via nasal cannula at 2 L/min
- C. Helping the client select a low-salt diet
- D. Encouraging the client to drink 2 to 3 L of water daily
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Encouraging the client to drink 2 to 3 liters of water daily helps to thin bronchial secretions, making them easier to expectorate. This can assist the client in coughing up the tenacious secretions. Maintaining a semi-Fowler's position can aid in improving lung expansion but may not directly address the issue of clearing the secretions. Administering oxygen via nasal cannula at 2 L/min can help improve oxygenation but does not specifically target the removal of bronchial secretions. Selecting a low-salt diet is important for overall health, but it does not directly address the client's immediate concern of clearing the bronchial secretions.
5. A client developed fat embolism syndrome (FES) following a fracture. Which of the following laboratory findings should the nurse expect?
- A. Decreased serum calcium level
- B. Decreased level of serum lipids
- C. Decreased erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR)
- D. Increased platelet count
Correct answer: A
Rationale: In fat embolism syndrome (FES), fat globules enter the bloodstream and can lead to various complications, including a decrease in serum calcium levels. This occurs due to the formation of fat emboli in the vessels, which can interfere with calcium metabolism. Therefore, a decreased serum calcium level is an expected laboratory finding in a client with fat embolism syndrome.
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