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. While caring for a client with extensive partial and full-thickness burns of the head, neck, and chest, which risk should the nurse prioritize for assessment and intervention?
- A. Airway obstruction
- B. Infection
- C. Fluid imbalance
- D. Paralytic ileus
Correct answer: A
Rationale: When a client sustains burns to the head, neck, or chest, the risk of airway obstruction is a critical concern due to potential swelling, inflammation, or inhalation injury. Any compromise to the airway can lead to severe respiratory distress or failure. Early recognition and intervention to maintain a clear airway are essential to prevent life-threatening complications in burn patients.
3. 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.
4. A post-anesthesia care unit nurse is caring for a client who is postoperative following a thoracotomy and lobectomy. Which of the following postoperative assessments should the nurse give the highest priority to?
- A. Arterial blood gases
- B. Urinary output
- C. Chest tube drainage
- D. Pain level
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Arterial blood gases are crucial to assess postoperatively in a client who has undergone thoracotomy and lobectomy to monitor oxygenation and ventilation status. Changes in arterial blood gases can indicate respiratory complications or inadequate gas exchange, which are critical issues that need prompt intervention to prevent further complications. While urinary output, chest tube drainage, and pain level are important assessments, monitoring arterial blood gases takes precedence in this specific postoperative scenario to ensure optimal respiratory function and overall patient well-being.
5. A healthcare worker is caring for a group of clients in an infectious disease unit. The worker should wear an OSHA-approved N95 respirator mask when caring for a client with which of the following infectious diseases?
- A. Pertussis
- B. Mycoplasma pneumonia
- C. Tuberculosis
- D. Respiratory syncytial virus
Correct answer: C
Rationale: An OSHA-approved N95 respirator mask is recommended when caring for a client with tuberculosis due to the airborne transmission of the disease. Tuberculosis poses a higher risk of transmission via respiratory droplets, making respiratory protection essential to prevent exposure and infection among healthcare workers.
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