ATI RN
ATI Medical Surgical Proctored Exam
1. How does the pain of a myocardial infarction (MI) differ from stable angina?
- A. Accompanied by shortness of breath
- B. Feelings of fear or anxiety
- C. Lasts about 3-5 minutes
- D. Relieved by taking nitroglycerin
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The pain of an MI is often accompanied by shortness of breath and feelings of fear or anxiety. It typically lasts longer than 15 minutes and is not relieved by nitroglycerin. Unlike stable angina, the pain of an MI occurs without a known cause such as exertion.
2. A client is 4 hours postoperative following abdominal surgery. The client's blood pressure has dropped from 120/80 mm Hg to 90/60 mm Hg. What action should the nurse take first?
- A. Administer an IV fluid bolus.
- B. Check the surgical site for bleeding.
- C. Place the client in a Trendelenburg position.
- D. Notify the healthcare provider.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Checking the surgical site for bleeding is crucial in this situation as it helps determine if the drop in blood pressure is due to hemorrhage, a potential postoperative complication. Identifying and addressing bleeding promptly is essential to prevent further complications and stabilize the client's condition.
3. During a call to the on-call physician about a client who had a hysterectomy 2 days ago & has unrelieved pain from prescribed narcotic medication, which statement is part of the SBAR format for communication?
- A. I suggest ordering a different pain medication.
- B. This client has allergies to morphine & codeine.
- C. Dr. Smith does not prefer nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory meds.
- D. The client had a vaginal hysterectomy 2 days ago.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: SBAR is a structured form of communication used in healthcare settings. It stands for Situation, Background, Assessment, and Recommendation. In this scenario, informing the on-call physician about the client's allergies to morphine & codeine falls under the 'Background' component of the SBAR format, making choice B the correct answer.
4. A healthcare professional is assessing a client who has a new onset of confusion. Which laboratory value should the professional check first?
- A. Blood glucose level
- B. Serum sodium level
- C. Serum calcium level
- D. Blood urea nitrogen (BUN)
Correct answer: A
Rationale: In a client presenting with a new onset of confusion, checking the blood glucose level first is crucial as hypoglycemia can cause confusion and is easily correctable. Addressing hypoglycemia promptly is essential to prevent further complications.
5. When caring for a client with acute pancreatitis, what intervention is most appropriate?
- A. Encourage a high-protein diet.
- B. Administer pain medication as needed.
- C. Provide small, frequent meals.
- D. Increase oral fluid intake.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Administering pain medication as needed is the most appropriate intervention for a client with acute pancreatitis. Pain management is crucial as pancreatitis can cause severe and debilitating pain. Providing pain relief is essential to improve the client's comfort and well-being.
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