ATI RN
ATI Medical Surgical Proctored Exam
1. A nurse cares for a client with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease who has been prescribed continuous oxygen therapy at home. Which statement indicates the client correctly understands the teaching?
- A. I plan to wear my oxygen when I exercise & feel short of breath.
- B. I will use my portable oxygen when grilling burgers in the backyard.
- C. I plan to use cotton balls to cushion the oxygen tubing on my ears.
- D. I will only smoke while I am wearing my oxygen via nasal cannula.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Cotton balls can decrease pressure ulcers from the oxygen tubing. Continuous oxygen orders mean the client should wear the oxygen at all times. Oxygen fuels a fire. Wearing oxygen while grilling & smoking increases the risk for fire.
2. A client with a long history of smoking is being assessed by a nurse. Which finding is a common complication of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)?
- A. Decreased anteroposterior chest diameter
- B. Increased breath sounds
- C. Prolonged expiratory phase
- D. Increased chest expansion
Correct answer: C
Rationale: In COPD, a prolonged expiratory phase is a typical finding caused by airway obstruction and air trapping. This results in difficulty expelling air from the lungs, leading to the characteristic prolonged exhalation in individuals with COPD.
3. What question should a nurse ask a client who has an anteroposterior (AP) chest diameter equal to the lateral chest diameter?
- A. Are you taking any medications or herbal supplements?
- B. Do you have any chronic breathing problems?
- C. How often do you perform aerobic exercise?
- D. What is your occupation and what are your hobbies?
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B. A nurse should ask the client if they have any chronic breathing problems when the anteroposterior (AP) chest diameter is the same as the lateral chest diameter. This finding indicates a barrel chest, which can be associated with chronic respiratory conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or emphysema. Assessing for chronic breathing problems can help the nurse further evaluate the client's respiratory status and provide appropriate care.
4. A client with heart failure has gained 2 kg (4.4 lbs) in the past 24 hours. What action should the nurse take first?
- A. Restrict the client's fluid intake.
- B. Assess the client's respiratory status.
- C. Administer diuretics as ordered.
- D. Notify the healthcare provider.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Assessing the client's respiratory status is the priority as it helps determine if the weight gain is due to fluid retention affecting breathing. This assessment is crucial in addressing the immediate concern of potential respiratory distress before implementing interventions like fluid restriction, diuretics, or notifying the healthcare provider.
5. A client is scheduled for a colonoscopy and receiving education from a healthcare provider. Which statement by the client indicates a need for further teaching?
- A. I can have clear liquids up to 2 hours before the procedure.
- B. I need to take a laxative the night before the procedure.
- C. I will be sedated during the procedure.
- D. I should avoid eating solid foods for 24 hours before the procedure.
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because clients are typically instructed to avoid solid foods for 12-24 hours before a colonoscopy, not a full 24 hours. This statement indicates a need for further teaching to ensure the client follows the correct dietary instructions for the procedure.
Similar Questions

Access More Features
ATI RN Basic
$69.99/ 30 days
- 50,000 Questions with answers
- All ATI courses Coverage
- 30 days access @ $69.99
ATI RN Premium
$149.99/ 90 days
- 50,000 Questions with answers
- All ATI courses Coverage
- 30 days access @ $149.99