ATI RN
ATI Medical Surgical Proctored Exam 2023
1. A client is prescribed nicotine replacement therapy. Which statement should the nurse include in this client's teaching?
- A. Smoking while taking this medication will increase your risk of a stroke.
- B. Make a list of reasons why smoking is a bad habit.
- C. Stopping this medication suddenly increases your risk for a heart attack.
- D. Rise slowly when getting out of bed in the morning.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: When a client is prescribed nicotine replacement therapy, it is crucial to emphasize that smoking while using this therapy can increase the risk of a stroke. Smoking while on nicotine replacement therapy can lead to excessive nicotine levels in the body, elevating cardiovascular risks. Therefore, the nurse should educate the client on the importance of avoiding smoking while utilizing this medication. Choices B, C, and D are not relevant to the specific teaching required for a client on nicotine replacement therapy.
2. The client is prescribed a long-acting beta2 agonist and expresses concerns about the cost, stating they only use the inhaler during asthma attacks. How should the nurse respond?
- A. Explain the importance of using the inhaler daily to prevent asthma attacks.
- B. Suggest identifying community services to help with the cost and encourage daily use of the inhaler.
- C. Explore the client's fears regarding breathlessness.
- D. Emphasize the necessity of using this inhaler daily and discuss potential community services for financial assistance.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct response should address the client's concern about the cost of using the inhaler daily. While emphasizing the importance of daily use is crucial, it is also essential to acknowledge and offer support for the financial burden. Identifying community resources can help the client access affordable medications. Exploring fears related to breathlessness does not directly address the client's financial concerns.
3. A client with a mediastinal chest tube is being assessed by a nurse. Which symptoms require the nurse's immediate intervention? (SATA)
- A. Production of pink sputum
- B. Tracheal deviation
- C. Pain at insertion site
- D. Sudden onset of shortness of breath
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Immediate intervention is necessary when a client with a mediastinal chest tube exhibits tracheal deviation since it may indicate a tension pneumothorax. This condition requires prompt attention to prevent serious complications. While the production of pink sputum and pain at the insertion site should be monitored and reported, they do not typically require immediate intervention. Sudden onset of shortness of breath could indicate various issues related to the chest tube but is not as critical as tracheal deviation in this context.
4. A client is experiencing an acute exacerbation of asthma. Which medication should the nurse administer first?
- A. Albuterol (Proventil)
- B. Ipratropium (Atrovent)
- C. Salmeterol (Serevent)
- D. Fluticasone (Flovent)
Correct answer: A
Rationale: During an acute exacerbation of asthma, the priority is to administer a short-acting beta2-agonist like Albuterol (Proventil) first. Albuterol acts quickly to dilate the airways and provide immediate relief of bronchospasm. Ipratropium (Atrovent) is an anticholinergic that can be used as an adjunct therapy. Salmeterol (Serevent) is a long-acting beta2-agonist intended for maintenance therapy, not for acute exacerbations. Fluticasone (Flovent) is a corticosteroid used for long-term asthma control and should not be the initial medication given during an acute exacerbation.
5. A client has a tracheostomy tube in place. When the nurse suctions the client, food particles are noted. What action by the nurse is best?
- A. Elevate the head of the client's bed.
- B. Measure and compare cuff pressures.
- C. Place the client on NPO status.
- D. Request a swallow study for the client.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: When food particles are noted during suctioning of a client with a tracheostomy tube, it can indicate tracheomalacia due to constant pressure from the tracheostomy cuff. This condition may lead to dilation of the tracheal passage. To address this issue, the nurse should measure and compare cuff pressures. By monitoring these pressures and comparing them to previous readings, the nurse can identify trends and potential complications. Elevating the head of the bed, placing the client on NPO status, and requesting a swallow study will not directly address the cuff pressure issue causing food particles in the secretions.
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