ATI RN
RN ATI Capstone Proctored Comprehensive Assessment 2019 A with NGN
1. Which finding in a postoperative patient requires immediate intervention by the nurse?
- A. Heart rate of 88 beats per minute.
- B. Blood pressure of 130/80 mmHg.
- C. Crackles heard in the lung bases.
- D. Oxygen saturation of 88% on room air.
Correct answer: D
Rationale: In a postoperative patient, an oxygen saturation level of 88% on room air indicates a significant drop below the normal range, suggesting potential respiratory distress. This finding requires immediate intervention by the nurse to ensure the patient receives adequate oxygenation. A heart rate of 88 beats per minute is within the normal range, making it a less concerning finding. A blood pressure of 130/80 mmHg falls within the normal range for blood pressure and does not require immediate intervention. Crackles heard in the lung bases may indicate fluid accumulation but may not always require immediate intervention unless accompanied by other concerning signs or symptoms.
2. A patient is prescribed a diuretic for hypertension. What is the most important assessment the nurse should perform?
- A. Monitor the patient's respiratory rate.
- B. Check the patient's blood pressure regularly.
- C. Monitor the patient's potassium levels.
- D. Monitor the patient's sodium levels.
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Corrected Rationale: When a patient is prescribed a diuretic for hypertension, monitoring the patient's sodium levels is crucial. Diuretics can lead to alterations in sodium levels, potentially causing complications like hyponatremia. While monitoring other parameters like respiratory rate, blood pressure, and potassium levels may also be important, the primary concern with diuretic therapy is the risk of sodium imbalance, making the monitoring of sodium levels the most critical assessment.
3. The surgical mask the perioperative nurse is wearing becomes moist. Which action will the perioperative nurse take next?
- A. Do not change the mask if the nurse is comfortable.
- B. Change the mask when relieved by the next shift.
- C. Apply a new mask.
- D. Reapply the mask after it air-dries.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: When a surgical mask becomes moist, it loses its effectiveness as a barrier against microorganisms. Therefore, the perioperative nurse should apply a new mask. Choice A is incorrect because a moist mask should not be continued to be worn even if the nurse is comfortable. Choice B is not the best course of action as the mask should be changed immediately when it becomes moist. Choice D is also incorrect as waiting for the mask to air-dry is not recommended due to the loss of barrier effectiveness.
4. A patient with a left arm fracture reports severe pain unrelieved by medication. What should the nurse assess for?
- A. Check for compartment syndrome
- B. Increase the pain medication
- C. Prepare the patient for surgery immediately
- D. Administer a sedative to calm the patient
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Correct answer: When a patient with a left arm fracture reports severe pain unrelieved by medication, the nurse should assess for compartment syndrome. Compartment syndrome is a condition where increased pressure within a muscle compartment compromises circulation and can lead to tissue damage. It is a surgical emergency that requires immediate intervention. Choice B is incorrect because simply increasing pain medication without identifying the cause of the unrelieved pain may mask symptoms of a serious issue like compartment syndrome. Choice C is incorrect as surgery would only be necessary if compartment syndrome is confirmed. Choice D is incorrect as administering a sedative does not address the underlying issue of unrelieved pain and may delay appropriate treatment.
5. When caring for a patient with a colostomy, which nursing action is most important?
- A. Monitor the colostomy for signs of infection.
- B. Empty the colostomy bag when it is half full.
- C. Encourage the patient to eat smaller, more frequent meals.
- D. Apply a skin barrier to prevent irritation.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Emptying the colostomy bag when it is half full is the most important nursing action when caring for a patient with a colostomy. This practice helps prevent leakage, reduces the risk of skin irritation, and promotes patient comfort. Monitoring for signs of infection (Choice A) is essential but not as crucial as maintaining proper colostomy care. Encouraging the patient to eat smaller, more frequent meals (Choice C) can be beneficial for colostomy patients but is not as critical as ensuring timely emptying of the colostomy bag. Applying a skin barrier to prevent irritation (Choice D) is important, but ensuring timely emptying of the colostomy bag takes precedence in preventing complications associated with a colostomy.
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