ATI RN
ATI RN Custom Exams Set 1
1. Six hours after major abdominal surgery, a male client complains of severe abdominal pain; is pale and perspiring; has a thready, rapid pulse; and states he feels faint. The nurse checks the client’s medication administration record and determines that the client receives another injection of pain medication in an hour. What is the appropriate action by the nurse?
- A. Explain to the client that it is too early to have an injection for pain
- B. Call the practitioner, report the client’s symptoms, and obtain further orders
- C. Reposition the client for greater comfort and turn on the television as a distraction
- D. Prepare the injection and administer it to the client early because of the severe pain
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct action for the nurse to take in this situation is option B: Call the practitioner, report the client’s symptoms, and obtain further orders. The client is displaying symptoms that indicate potential complications, such as internal bleeding, which require immediate medical evaluation. Option A is incorrect because the client's condition suggests a more urgent need for assessment. Option C is inappropriate as it does not address the seriousness of the client's symptoms. Option D is dangerous and could exacerbate any underlying issue the client may be experiencing.
2. What is the best intervention to reduce the risk of falling in the hospital room for a blind client being cared for?
- A. Tell the client’s family that they will be expected to stay overnight
- B. Apply restraints to the client
- C. Shout to the client
- D. Orient the client to the location of objects in the room
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The best intervention to reduce the risk of falling in the hospital room for a blind client is to orient the client to the location of objects in the room. This helps the client navigate safely and independently. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because telling the client's family to stay overnight, applying restraints, and shouting are not appropriate interventions for preventing falls in a blind client; in fact, they could potentially lead to increased anxiety and risk of falls.
3. A client is experiencing a panic attack. Which action should the nurse take first?
- A. Remain with the client and offer reassurance.
- B. Administer an anti-anxiety medication as prescribed.
- C. Encourage the client to engage in physical activity.
- D. Encourage the client to breathe deeply and slowly.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: During a panic attack, the immediate priority for the nurse is to provide support and reassurance to the client. Remaining with the client helps establish a sense of safety and trust, which can help calm the client during an episode of panic. Administering medication, encouraging physical activity, and deep breathing techniques are beneficial interventions, but offering reassurance and support should be the initial step to address the immediate emotional distress and anxiety experienced by the client.
4. When administering the drug lithium, what is one important side effect to watch for?
- A. Anaphylaxis
- B. Seizures
- C. Angioedema
- D. Pulmonary Edema
Correct answer: C
Rationale: When administering lithium, it is crucial to watch for the side effect of angioedema. Angioedema is a potential adverse reaction associated with lithium therapy, characterized by rapid swelling beneath the skin, often around the eyes and lips. Monitoring for this side effect is essential to promptly address and manage any signs of angioedema that may occur during lithium treatment. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because anaphylaxis, seizures, and pulmonary edema are not typically associated side effects of lithium administration.
5. A patient with severe pain and leg swelling is admitted. What should the nurse assess for?
- A. Check for signs of deep vein thrombosis.
- B. Assess for compartment syndrome.
- C. Increase the patient's fluid intake.
- D. Prepare the patient for surgery to relieve pain.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: When a patient presents with severe pain and leg swelling, the nurse should assess for compartment syndrome. Compartment syndrome is a serious condition that can develop due to increased pressure within a muscle compartment, leading to compromised circulation and potential tissue damage. It is crucial to identify compartment syndrome promptly as it may require immediate intervention to prevent further complications. Checking for signs of deep vein thrombosis (Choice A) is also important in a patient with leg swelling, but in this scenario, the focus should be on assessing for compartment syndrome due to the severity of the symptoms. Increasing fluid intake (Choice C) may not address the underlying cause of the patient's symptoms. Preparing the patient for surgery (Choice D) without a comprehensive assessment and diagnosis is premature and may not be the appropriate initial intervention.